Baltimore Ravens Sign Veteran WR Dez Bryant to Practice Squad

Dez Bryant in 2017. Photo by Shane Roper/CSM/REX/Shutterstock (9201830a)

Former Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant has been signed to the Baltimore Ravens practice squad after being out of the NFL for two years.

The veteran confirmed the news on social media, stating that he was emotional and thankful for the opportunity to restart his career.

There is no timeline for when Bryant could suit up for the Ravens in a game, but the team needs him badly. Despite having a great defense and current league MVP Lamar Jackson at quarterback, the Ravens receivers have been underwhelming, ranking last in the NFL in both receptions and receiving yards.

The 31-year-old Bryant is a big-body, possession receiver who should be able to become a red-zone threat for the Ravens and complement the speed of fellow wide receiver Marquise “Hollywood” Brown.

While playing eight seasons with the Dallas Cowboys, Bryant was dominant, totaling 531 recepts for 7,459 yards and 73 touchdown catches, which is a franchise record.

Bryant originally worked out for Baltimore in August but left without a contract.

In his first attempt to get back in the league in 2018, Bryant signed a one-year deal with the New Orleans Saints but ended up tearing his Achilles tendon during his first practice with the team.