The Pittsburgh Steelers are heading into the 2024 season with a less-than-ideal wide receiver lineup, sparking a search for reinforcements. The Dallas Cowboys’ recent decision to release Martavis Bryant, as reported by Tom Pelissero, has raised eyebrows in Pittsburgh. Could a reunion with their former receiver offer a potential solution, or does it pose more risk than reward?
“The #Cowboys released veteran WR Martavis Bryant, per source. Other teams are interested and expected to bring him in for a look,” tweeted Pelissero.
Martavis Bryant’s Promising Past, Tainted Legacy
Bryant showed immense potential during his early years with the Steelers. In his last season with Pittsburgh, he recorded an impressive 603 yards on 50 catches. However, his promising trajectory was derailed by a series of suspensions due to substance abuse issues.
The #Cowboys released former #Steelers WR Martavis Bryant, per @TomPelissero pic.twitter.com/i9Vh2V42C8
— Steelersonly (@steelersonlyy) May 8, 2024
The subsequent NFL suspension in 2018 capped off an unfortunate string of disciplinary issues that had plagued Bryant since 2016. After that, he drifted through various alternative leagues like the CFL, IFL, and XFL, struggling to recapture the brilliance that once electrified Heinz Field.
A Complicated Comeback Story
After bouncing between leagues and teams, Bryant finally found his way back to the NFL in November 2023, landing a spot on the Cowboys’ practice squad. Unfortunately, he never saw game time before his release. His comeback efforts yielded little tangible evidence of a resurgence. During his brief stint in the XFL with the Vegas Vipers, he managed just 154 yards on 14 catches across eight games.
Weighing the Pros and Cons
At 32 years old, Bryant isn’t exactly the youthful speedster Pittsburgh once relied on. His resume over the past five years is slim, and questions remain about his reliability and discipline.
With such an unpredictable track record, Steelers fans are left to wonder if Pittsburgh is desperate enough to roll the dice on him.
While a Bryant reunion could address immediate needs, the Steelers need to consider if his potential upside outweighs the baggage. With keyword-friendly phrases like “Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver lineup,” “Martavis Bryant’s NFL comeback,” and “Steelers WR depth issues,” it’s clear that the team faces a difficult decision on whether to gamble on familiar talent or explore other, less risky options.
Source: Fansided
