Owens will skip his Hall enshrinement

He’s first inductee to shun the event

Terrell Owens always likes being the center of attention. His decision to skip the induction ceremony for the Pro Football Hall of Fame in August will keep him far from the spotlight.

Owens was voted into the Hall in February after being denied in his first two years of eligibility. His announcement Thursday is unprecedented by an enshrinee.

“Hopefully, the story this summer will remain about those that will be there instead of the one that will not,” said Howard Balzer of SiriusXM Radio, a 15-year voter for the Hall of Fame.

In a statement released Thursday by his publicist, Owens said: “While I am incredibly appreciative of this opportunity, I have made the decision to publicly decline my invitation to attend the induction ceremony in Canton.

“After visiting Canton earlier this year, I came to the realization that I wish to celebrate what will be one of the most memorable days of my life, elsewhere,” Owens added. “At a later date, I will announce where and when I will celebrate my induction.”

The Hall confirmed that the former All-Pro receiver informed them he would not be on hand Aug. 4 for the enshrinements.

Patriots

Wide receiver Julian Edelman, could be suspended for violating the league’s performance-enhancers policy. ESPN, citing unnamed sources, reported that Edelman, who missed the 2017 season after tearing his right ACL in a preseason game in Detroit, is facing a four-game suspension. Edelman was the final player on the field for practice Thursday and later could be seen having a long talk with Patriots owner Robert Kraft. According to the report, Edelman, 32, is appealing the suspension. If it stands, he would miss a home game against Houston, at Jacksonville and Detroit, and home against Miami. The league does not release information on suspensions until they are announced.

Browns

Running back Duke Johnson reached agreement with Cleveland on a three-year, $15.6 million contract extension. Johnson was Cleveland’s top playmaker in 2017 when the club went 0-16. The 2015 third-round draft pick from Miami led the Browns with 74 catches and 693 yards receiving. He also rushed for 348 yards and scored four touchdowns. Johnson’s deal includes $7.7 million guaranteed and a $5 million signing bonus. Johnson is in the final season of his four-year rookie deal.

Colts

Coach Frank Reich believes his starting quarterback will soon be throwing. Andrew Luck continues to rehabilitate from shoulder surgery that took place more than 16 months ago, and cost him all of the 2017 season. He has been learning Reich’s new offense and the team hopes he will start throwing between mid-June and late July.