The Washington Commanders have added wide receiver Martavis Bryant to their roster, marking his return to the NFL after an absence of six years. Standing at 6-foot-4, Bryant brings a much-needed height advantage to the team’s receiving group, which currently features only one other receiver taller than 6-foot-2.
Bryant’s return follows his indefinite suspension for drug use in 2018 and subsequent reinstatement in November 2023. To accommodate Bryant, the Commanders released kicker Ramiz Ahmed. Coach Dan Quinn, who was versed in Bryant’s capabilities during their time together with the Dallas Cowboys, expressed enthusiasm about his signing, noting Bryant’s impressive shape and eagerness to prove himself.
During his previous tenure with the Pittsburgh Steelers from 2014 to 2018, Bryant accumulated 126 receptions and 17 touchdowns. However, his career has been marred by suspensions related to substance abuse. After briefly joining the Oakland Raiders, he was suspended indefinitely again in December 2018. Since then, he has played in various minor leagues but did not see game action.
Bryant acknowledged uncertainty about his chances in the NFL but emphasized his need to stay prepared both physically and mentally. “I’ve been through a lot. I don’t give up on myself; I’ve always been a fighter,” he stated.
Quinn highlighted Bryant’s unique skill set, particularly his size and ability to make plays in the red zone, comparing him to a linebacker playing wide receiver. The Commanders, although not deep at the receiver position, must finalize their roster with competition from notable players such as Terry McLaurin, Jahan Dotson, and Dyami Brown, among others.
Bryant, who has slimmed down to 208 pounds, is grateful for the opportunity and knows he must continue to work hard to secure a spot on the final roster. His teammates have already taken notice of his impressive physical attributes, bolstering their optimism about his potential contributions to the team. “When you see him out here running around and he’s big, strong and fast, he looks like he’s in great shape,” McLaurin remarked.