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2016 NFL Free Agency Profile: Dez Bryant

By Erik Lambert

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Dec 28, 2014; Landover, MD, USA; Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant (88) carries the ball to score a touchdown in front of Washington Redskins strong safety Phillip Thomas (41) in the second quarter at FedEx Field. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

Lots and lots of money is at stake for wide receiver Dez Bryant heading into 2016 NFL free agency.  What should be expected of him and his team this season?

  • Age:  26
  • 88 catches
  • 1,320 yards
  • 15 touchdowns
  • Two Pro Bowls
  • All-Pro (2014)

He might very well be the best wide receiver in pro football at the moment.  The numbers certainly reflect that, along with his growing knack for making big catches in big moments (playoff controversies excluded of course).  Bryant presents a serious issue for the Dallas Cowboys.  On the one hand his talent and playmaking ability make getting an extension for him priority #1.  Yet his volatile nature, questionable past and apparent demands for top dollar create a difficult conundrum.

For his play on the field he has more than earned the money, which Jerry Jones should have no issues about paying.  It’s can they be totally sure his shady past and outspoken present won’t come back to bite them at some point.  They’re already taking a ton of huge risks in 2015 as it is with other questionable characters like Greg Hardy and Randy Gregory.

Bryant has shown no signs of slowing down.  That means smart money says Dallas just can’t afford to let him get away.  Still, the lack of progress on a new contract hints at a season-long standoff to see whether or not his superb run continues or he regresses.

Likeliest Outcome:  Franchise Tag

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