In a surprising move, the Washington Commanders have signed wide receiver Martavis Bryant, who last played in the NFL six years ago. Bryant’s return to the league marks the end of a long and tumultuous journey through various minor leagues as he sought to revive his professional football career. Standing at an imposing 6-foot-4, Bryant brings a unique element to the Commanders’ receiving corps: size, something the team has been lacking.
Martavis Bryant’s Journey Back to the NFL
A Long Road Back
Martavis Bryant’s professional career took a significant hit in 2018 when he was suspended indefinitely for drug use. After years of uncertainty and playing in football’s minor leagues, Bryant was reinstated in November 2023. His return to the NFL is not just a testament to his physical abilities but also his mental resilience.
- Minor Leagues Experience:
- Canadian Football League (CFL)
- Indoor Football League
- Fan Controlled Football league
- XFL
Bryant’s journey through these leagues helped him stay in shape and ready for another shot at the NFL, even though he never played a game in the CFL.
The Commanders’ Decision
The Washington Commanders made room for Bryant by releasing kicker Ramiz Ahmed. Coach Dan Quinn, who had previously worked with Bryant on the Dallas Cowboys’ practice squad, spoke highly of Bryant’s physical condition and determination.
- Key Factors for Signing:
- Physical readiness
- Hunger to prove himself
- Unique skill set
“He’s in really good shape and he’s really hungry to prove it,” Quinn said. “He’s been ready for a while, so it’s good to have him here.”
Bryant’s NFL Statistics and Career Highlights
Early NFL Career
Bryant’s early years in the NFL were promising. During his three seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers from 2014 to 2018, he caught 126 passes, 17 of which were touchdowns. However, his career was interrupted by suspensions, including a full season in 2016 for violating the NFL’s substance abuse policy.
- Career Stats:
- 126 receptions
- 17 touchdowns
- Missed the entire 2016 season
After returning to the Steelers in 2017, Bryant signed with the Oakland Raiders but was again suspended indefinitely by the NFL in December 2018. His career seemed to be in jeopardy, but Bryant never gave up hope.
Canadian Football League and Other Leagues
Bryant was later signed by two CFL teams, although he never played in a game. He also spent time in the Indoor Football League, the Fan Controlled Football league, and the XFL. These experiences, while not as glamorous as the NFL, kept Bryant in competitive shape.
- Minor League Stints:
- CFL: Signed but did not play
- Indoor Football League: Short stint
- Fan Controlled Football league: Brief period
- XFL: Kept him in competitive shape
The Significance of Bryant’s Size
Unique Physical Attributes
One of the main reasons the Commanders signed Bryant is his size. At 6-foot-4, he provides a physical presence that is rare among the team’s current receivers. Washington has only one other receiver taller than 6-2 in camp: Brycen Tremayne, who is also fighting for a roster spot.
- Physical Attributes:
- Height: 6-foot-4
- Weight: 208 pounds (lost 22 pounds after last season)
“Martavis has a really cool skill set. He’s got size and length and the ability to use him in the red zone,” Quinn said. “He looks like a linebacker playing wideout from a size standpoint.”
Impact on the Team
Bryant’s size gives the Commanders a valuable asset, especially in the red zone. His ability to catch passes over defenders and his large catch radius make him a formidable target.
- Advantages:
- Red zone threat
- Large catch radius
- Ability to outmuscle defenders
“Seeing the skills, seeing how we compete against him, oftentimes in practice we put him into a certain spot to simulate the size of a receiver, the speed of a receiver,” Quinn said. “He’s got a real size, like the catch radius, throw it over here, he has got length to throw it away from somebody … knowing, hey, this is incomplete, or my guy’s getting it.”
Competition and Future Prospects
Current Receiving Corps
The Commanders are not particularly deep at the receiver position, but they do have some notable players. Terry McLaurin, Jahan Dotson, Dyami Brown, rookie Luke McCaffrey, Olamide Zaccheaus, and Jamison Crowder are all vying for roster spots. The latter two are also competing for the punt returner’s job.
- Current Receivers:
- Terry McLaurin
- Jahan Dotson
- Dyami Brown
- Luke McCaffrey
- Olamide Zaccheaus
- Jamison Crowder
Bryant will have to prove himself to secure a spot on the final roster. His past experiences and physical attributes give him a fighting chance, but the competition is stiff.
Bryant’s Determination
Bryant is aware of the challenges ahead but remains optimistic. “I’m thankful to be here and super excited. I’ve still got more work to put in. I have to look good,” he said. His teammates have already noticed his impressive physical traits.
- Teammate Impressions:
- Big, strong, and fast
- Looks like he’s in great shape
“When you see him out here running around and he’s big, strong, and fast, he looks like he’s in great shape,” McLaurin said. “You’ve got to be ready for your moment and opportunity and I feel like that’s the reason why he’s here.”
FAQs
What led to Martavis Bryant’s suspension in 2018?
Bryant was suspended indefinitely in 2018 for violating the NFL’s substance abuse policy.
What leagues did Bryant play in during his suspension from the NFL?
Bryant played in the Canadian Football League, Indoor Football League, Fan Controlled Football league, and the XFL.
Why did the Washington Commanders sign Martavis Bryant?
The Commanders signed Bryant primarily for his size and unique skill set, which they lacked in their current receiving corps.
How has Bryant prepared for his return to the NFL?
Bryant stayed in shape by playing in various minor leagues and maintained a strong mental attitude, never giving up on his dream of returning to the NFL.
What challenges does Bryant face to make the Commanders’ final roster?
Bryant faces stiff competition from other receivers and must prove his worth during training camp and preseason games.
Conclusion
Martavis Bryant’s return to the NFL with the Washington Commanders is a story of resilience and determination. After six years away from the league, he brings a unique set of skills and physical attributes to a team in need of size at the receiver position. While the road ahead is challenging, Bryant’s journey through various minor leagues has prepared him for this moment. As he competes for a spot on the final roster, his story serves as an inspiration to never give up, no matter the odds.
