Martavis Bryant has signed with the Dallas Cowboys, marking both a “long shot” and a “temporary win” for “America’s Team.”
Why the “long shot”? Despite Cowboys COO Stephen Jones’ description of Bryant as a “big, strong, fast receiver that we’ll certainly look at,” Bryant, 31, has not appeared in an NFL game since 2018 because of a long-term NFL suspension for breaching the league’s substance abuse policy.
What is the point of a “win”? Because, if Dallas hadn’t snatched him up, the Tennessee Titans and Detroit Lions would have been first in line, according to Bleacher Report’s Jordan Schultz.
Former Dallas wide receiver Dez Bryant (no related) is ecstatic about the move, which will see Martavis start on the Cowboys practice squad.
Apart from the “rare talent” aspect – Martavis seemed like a potential breakout star when he scored 15 touchdowns in his first two years with the Pittsburgh Steelers – we have no idea if the rest of things about the former fourth-round choice is genuine. The Cowboys have clearly worked through their behavioral problems, and Bryant appears to want to fight his way back, having expressed interest in playing in the Canadian Football League, the Indoor Football League, Fan Controlled Football, and the XFL.
But one of the reasons we’re holding off is the Cowboys’ previous engagement with Antonio Calloway, who signed with Dallas late last year under similar circumstances and excitement. However, Callaway never advanced beyond the practice squad, and when he was arrested in the spring for suspected persistent traffic violations, the Cowboys released him.
Aside from CeeDee Lamb, the Cowboys’ wide receivers have not made substantial contributions. With only 243 yards, Michael Gallup has yet to hit the end zone, while the freshly acquired Brandin Cooks has hardly contributed to the offense with 17 catches for 165 yards and two touchdowns.
If he makes the team, Bryant might provide another option for Dak Prescott down the stretch.
