Key Takeaways:
– The Dallas Cowboys let go of wide receiver Martavis Bryant.
– Despite not playing since 2018, Bryant was re-signed due to his impressive size and past performances.
– Former Jacksonville Jaguars receiver Zay Jones is potentially joining the Cowboys, post his visit.
The End of Martavis Bryant’s Season with the Cowboys
In a surprising turn of events, NFL veteran wide receiver, Martavis Bryant, has been released by the Dallas Cowboys. Notable reporter Tom Pelissero of NFL Network broke this unexpected news on Wednesday, May 8th. Pelissero further stated that Bryant’s recent stint on the practice squad during the 2023 season ended with his termination after the regular season. However, the Cowboys did re-sign him on a reserve future contract.
A Highly Anticipated Return Remains Distant
The 32-year-old Bryant, who stands at 6-foot-4, has been out of the NFL action since 2018. During his initial football years, Bryant proved to be an asset to the Pittsburgh Steelers. He made headlines during his rookie season in 2014 by securing eight receiving touchdowns, placing him second on the team ranklist.
The next season, Bryant outperformed his previous record by making 50 catches for 765 yards and scoring six touchdowns. His bigger feat was leading the Steelers during the playoffs with 14 catches for 183 yards, and impressive 84 rushing yards in a span of two games.
However, his NFL journey was interrupted in 2016 when he faced suspension for a full season following a violation of the league’s substance abuse policy. Despite this setback, Bryant returned stronger, securing the position of the starting receiver for the Steelers in 2017.
Martavis Bryant’s Complex History with the NFL
A series of events led to Bryant serving time on the scout team, followed by a promotion back to the first-team offense. The rollercoaster ride continued as he was traded to the Oakland Raiders before the 2018 season. Despite his limited appearances in only eight games, he impressed with 19 catches for 266 receiving yards.
Unfortunately, a knee injury landed Bryant on the injured reserve bench, and a violation of conditional reinstatement rules led to his further suspension by the NFL, marking his last appearance in an NFL game.
Reasons Behind Bryant’s Brief Stint with the Cowboys
Despite facing multiple obstacles, Bryant’s size received positive remarks from Stephen Jones, team executive vice president for the Cowboys. He highlighted that Bryant’s physique– his size, speed, length – provided the team with a unique perspective that their current receiving corps lacked.
Jones’s admiration for Bryant’s ability is evident in his speech back in November on San Antonio’s Sports Star. He outlined that Bryant’s sizable advantage over the rest of the receiving squad and his proven abilities in the past were bound to contribute to the team.
The Future for the Dallas Cowboys
The news of Bryant’s departure aligns with the introduction of Zay Jones, a former receiver for the Jacksonville Jaguars, as reported by Jordan Schultz from Bleacher Report. The 29-year-old Jones, who showcased his prowess with 823 yards on 82 catches and five touchdowns in the 2022 season, has been an asset since his inception in the league as a second-round draft pick by the Buffalo Bills.
As the Dallas Cowboys work towards building a strong team, their decision to let go of Bryant seems to hinge on utilizing the talent and energy of potential newcomers like the promising Zay Jones.