MIAMI — Former NFL star Antonio Brown is set to return to Florida after opting not to challenge extradition from New Jersey, where he was recently held on an attempted murder charge. Authorities confirmed his decision on Friday, indicating he is now awaiting transport back to Miami.

Brown, 37, was taken into custody by U.S. marshals in Dubai before being brought to Essex County Jail in Newark. During a brief court appearance on Friday, he waived his right to contest the extradition, paving the way for his return to face serious legal allegations.

Carmen Martin, spokesperson for the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office, stated Brown is currently in their facility as he awaits pickup by Florida law enforcement.

The charges stem from an incident on May 16, following a celebrity boxing match, where Brown is accused of brandishing a firearm during a confrontation. According to an arrest warrant, he allegedly took a gun from a security staff member and shot at a man named Zul-Qarnain Kwame Nantambu, who reported that one of the bullets grazed his neck. Video evidence reportedly shows Brown approaching Nantambu with the weapon drawn.

Initial police responses did not lead to Brown’s arrest that night, as Nantambu was not immediately recognized as a victim. It wasn’t until several days later that he identified Brown as the shooter to investigators.

Brown has resided in Dubai for several months, and there are unanswered questions regarding the timeline of his arrest and the decision to extradite him to New Jersey instead of directly to Miami. His legal representation has not been publicly disclosed.

After the altercation, Brown utilized social media to assert that he was acting in self-defense against multiple attackers who attempted to rob him.

If convicted, the charge carries significant penalties, including a potential 15-year prison sentence and fines up to $10,000.

A once-prominent figure in professional football, Brown enjoyed a stellar career highlighted by numerous accolades, including seven Pro Bowl selections. He is particularly remembered for his contributions to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during their Super Bowl LV victory in early 2021.

Despite his on-field successes, Brown has faced numerous legal issues in recent years. His controversies have ranged from allegations of domestic violence to public outbursts that led to his departure from the Buccaneers, effectively marking the end of his football career. As he navigates these serious charges, Brown’s future remains uncertain.