Before the 2018 season, Jon Gruden wanted to add speed to his wide receiver corps. He accomplished that by sending a future third-round selection to Pittsburgh for Martavis Bryant.
At the time, it seemed like a worthwhile gamble as Bryant was a threat to score anytime he touched the football. However, his availability was a problem as the former Clemson receiver played in just 36 games over the course of four seasons as he was constantly in trouble with the NFL due to substance abuse.
The Raiders were hoping he could turn his career around in Oakland, but that didn’t happen as he was suspended indefinitely near the end of the 2018 season. He finished his Raiders’ career with just 19 receptions for 266 yards and zero touchdowns.
Bryant did not play at all in 2019 and it doesn’t appear he will be on the field in 2020 either, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
Multiple teams have inquired about FA Martavis Bryant, but the ex-Steelers & Raiders WR has not yet reapplied for reinstatement from his indefinite suspension, per me & @TomPelissero. Bryant hopes to play, but has more work to be done. As of now, playing in 2020 seems unlikely.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) July 25, 2020
Bryant is just 28 years old and can be a difference-maker when available. While it does appear that he would like to rejoin the league soon, he has not begun the process of reinstatement, which can take multiple months to be approved. Don’t expect the “White Tiger” to be on an NFL field any time soon.
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