First on 13: Antonio Brown says he will play for Albany Empire

[anvplayer video=”5177292″ station=”998132″]

Albany Empire owner Antonio Brown said he will suit up and play for his National Arena League team.

Brown told NewsChannel 13’s Rodger Wyland on Wednesday that he will play in a game with the Empire either May 27 or June 17. Both are home games.

Brown is a seven-time Pro Bowl receiver who played 10 seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers. He’s still considered a great wide receiver, and some teams are interested in seeing him return to the NFL.

The Empire has averaged about 2,500 fans per game so far this season at the MVP Arena. That’s far below where attendance should be.

Brown, who is the son of Albany Firebirds legend “Touchdown” Eddie Brown, told Wyland he wants to fill the arena with 10,000 fans. He wants to see how many tickets are sold now that he’s announced he’ll play.

Brown confirmed he has been in contact with former NFL quarterback Cam Newton about joining the Empire in some capacity.