Former NFL wide receiver ANTONIO BROWN’s foray into arena football
ownership has ended abruptly. The National Arena League (NAL) terminated
BROWN’s ownership of the Albany Empire,citing unpaid league assessments
and other breaches of league membership policies.

The NAL’s decision,announced on Thursday,comes after weeks of turmoil
surrounding the Empire,including allegations of financial instability and
player mistreatment under BROWN’s leadership.

The Rise and Fall in Albany

“The NAL has terminated the membership of ALB Empire.”

BROWN acquired ownership of the Albany Empire in March 2023, generating
excitement among fans and players alike. However, the team quickly
descended into chaos, marked by missed payrolls, bounced checks, and
unfulfilled promises.

“He didn’t pay anybody,” said one former Empire player,who requested
anonymity due to fear of reprisal. “We were promised the world, but
delivered nothing.”

The NAL had previously fined BROWN $1,000 for conduct detrimental to the
league after he made disparaging remarks about the league and its
commissioner.

League Intervention and Fallout

In a statement, the NAL said it had “exhausted all available options” to
resolve the issues with BROWN’s ownership. The league will now take control
of the Empire and attempt to salvage the remainder of the season.

“This was not an easy decision, but it was a necesary one,” said NAL
Commissioner CHRIS SIEGEL. “We are committed to ensuring the integrity of
the league and providing a positive experience for our players and fans.”

The future of the Albany Empire remains uncertain. The team’s players and
coaches are now in limbo, unsure of weather they will be paid or if the
team will even continue to exist.

“It’s a sad situation,” said the former Empire player. “We just want to
play football, but it’s hard when you don’t know if you’re going to get
paid.”