Antonio Brown joining Bucs this week, but can’t practice quite yet

Newest Bucs receiver Antonio Brown is set to arrive at the AdventHealth Training Center later this week, but exactly what he’ll be permitted to do initially was the source of mild confusion Monday.

Speaking to reporters during his weekly Zoom conference Monday, coach Bruce Arians said Brown — the highly controversial Pro Bowler who has agreed to a one-year deal —could begin practicing Wednesday. But a team spokesperson later offered a clarification, saying Brown can’t practice until his eight-game suspension ends and he’s eligible for reinstatement.

That would be early next week, following the Bucs' Monday night game against the Giants. Until then, Brown may attend virtual meetings and meet with the team’s strength-and-conditioning staff.

In July, the NFL suspended Brown for eight games under the league’s personal-conduct policy for his role in a January dispute with a moving company employee, for which he pleaded no contest to burglary and battery charges and received two years probation.

“He’s a tremendous football player,” quarterback Tom Brady said following Sunday’s 45-20 win against the Raiders.

“I’ve played with him for a brief period of time. I’m looking forward to working with him again and see what role he can come in with. He’s a very hard-working guy. Again, we’re all going to go out there on the practice field and do the best we can do. We’re going to see how it all fits together.”

Times staff writer Rick Stroud contributed to this report.