News:Dez Bryant told the Cowboys official team website his broken finger could give him some side effects following surgery and rehab but that it won't affect his play. "It’s never going to be normal, but I promise you it’s never going to be an issue. I’m ready to go,” he said.
Analysis: We previously reported Bryant was already catching passes and seems like a back issue won't hamper him. Bryant had a taste of being a dominant receiver last season and sounds like he's not ready to give it up, telling the Dallas Morning News that "I know what I'm doing" and hopes to build on 2012. He finished as the third-best receiver in Fantasy and had 11-plus points in seven of his final eight games. It looks like Bryant can be counted on as a studly No. 1 Fantasy WR worth a pick in Round 2 in all drafts.
News: ESPN reports that Cowboys receiver Dez Bryant told an El Paso radio station that his index finger, which he fractured last season, is great and that he's catching passes from quarterback Tony Romo. "Finger is great," Bryant said. "I'm catching passes the same. I'm not missing a beat." Bryant, who suffered a broken finger in a victory at Cincinnati on Dec. 9, bypassed surgery and instead wore a protective brace because the Cowboys were still in the playoff hunt. Bryant caught 18 passes for 159 yards and two touchdowns in the final three games of the regular season.
Analysis: Bryant also is dealing with a bad back, but it sounds like things are going well if he's already catching passes in the offseason. We consider Bryant a No. 1 Fantasy option heading into this season, and he should be considered a Top 5 receiver worth drafting as early as Round 2 in the majority of leagues.
News: ESPN reports that Cowboys receiver Dez Bryant is confident that he's capable of becoming the NFL's first 2,000-yard receiver. The 24-year-old Bryant believes his 2012 breakout season, when he caught 92 passes for 1,382 yards and 12 touchdowns, was just the beginning. Bryant had 50 catches for 879 yards and 10 touchdowns in the final eight games, numbers that would be among the best in NFL history if projected over a full season, and production that Bryant believes he can build upon. "That's still scratching the surface," Bryant said. "It's only going to get better, to be honest. I still have a lot to give. I feel like nobody's seen anything. Nothing. I feel like it can be a lot more than that. That's just being honest. I honestly feel like [2,000 yards and 20 touchdowns] can potentially happen." Bryant, who played the final three games of the season with a broken index finger that required postseason surgery, said a lower-back injury forced him to leave the season-ending loss to the Redskins. It has kept him from running routes this offseason and might prevent him from being ready to fully participate in organized team activities this offseason.
Analysis: Bryant emerged as Tony Romo's No. 1 receiver last season, and that rapport continues to develop. While he hasn't been able to run routes for Romo this offseason, Bryant said they have communicated frequently, with Romo often sending the receiver inspirational text messages. We consider Bryant a No. 1 Fantasy option heading into this season, and he should be considered a Top 5 receiver worth drafting as early as Round 2 in the majority of leagues.
News: ESPN reports that Cowboys coach Jason Garrett praised receiver Dez Bryant for his off-field work in becoming more responsible. "He's just a really, really good young man," Garrett said. "He's made great strides over the last three years. We feel good about the progress he's made, not only as a player but as a person. We all know from the background from where he came; he's really grown a lot. I think the consistency that he's shown in his personal life spills over and the consistency he's shown as a player and his production he's shown on Sundays. I feel great about his progress and try to stay in touch with him, with all our players."Owner Jerry Jones has high expectations for Bryant this year. "Is it dreaming to think that we can have a more effective Dez Bryant?" Jones said. "In the sense, Dez just gets better and has a better understanding of what he's doing when he's not getting the ball."
Analysis: Bryant, who had offseason finger surgery, had a breakout 2012 season with 92 catches for 1,382 yards and 12 touchdowns. We consider him a No. 1 Fantasy option heading into this season, and he should be considered a Top 5 receiver worth drafting as early as Round 2 in the majority of leagues.
News: ESPN reports that Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said he believes the off-field troubles, ranging from an arrest following an argument with his mother to a number of suits related to unpaid loans, are part of receiver Dez Bryant’s past. “Dez is in a better place relative to anything that the Cowboys are interested in, which is most everything about him,” Jones said. “He’s in a better place and that’s a positive. ... He’s not around the kind of atmosphere or doesn’t have the kind of risks that are involved in his life on or off the field that he had seven, eight months ago.” Bryant, who had offseason finger surgery, had a breakout 2012 season with 92 catches for 1,382 yards and 12 touchdowns. Coach Jason Garrett cited Bryant's maturity as a major factor in the increased production. "There’s a correlation in the growth and development as a person and the growth and development of the player," Garrett said. "I think what he’s done more than anything else is just simply mature and it has a lot to do with the approach that he’s taken. I think the first couple of years in the league, he was a very productive player for a rookie receiver and a second-year receiver, he made big impacts on games, but he wasn’t as consistent as he needed to be. I think his practice habits, his commitment to getting better on the details of the game just continued to improve. I think he saw the results on how that led to him having success on Sunday afternoons.”
Analysis: Bryant has the chance to be an elite Fantasy receiver for many years to come, and he was a star in his third year in the NFL. We expect him to remain on a high level in 2013, and he's worth drafting as a Top 5 Fantasy option with a pick as early as the end of Round 2.
News: The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports that Cowboys receiver Dez Bryant will continue to work with a coach who has helped him in his young career. Jimmy Robinson has been replaced as the Cowboys’ receivers coach, but he is staying on in the organization because he can continue to have an influence on Bryant. “Jimmy had a really positive impact on Dez,” coach Jason Garrett said Wednesday. “It was a breakout year for Dez. He caught 92 balls for 1,300-plus yards and really played very, very good football. I think he matured a ton, and there’s no question the environment he was in certainly helped him, and Jimmy was a big part of that.” Robinson spent two years as the receivers coach after joining the Cowboys from Green Bay. He is remaining as a senior coaching consultant. Derek Dooley was named the new receivers coach last week.
Analysis: Bryant was a beast to close the season and finished 2012 with 92 catches for 1,382 yards and 12 touchdowns. He will enter 2013 as a Top 5 Fantasy receiver, and we expect him to be drafted some time in Round 3 in the majority of leagues.
News: Cowboys receiver Dez Bryant has undergone successful surgery on his broken left index finger according to the official team website. He will miss parts of the offseason conditioning program but should be fine for the start of training camp. Bryant also spent the Monday after Week 17 in the hospital in Washington with a back injury but no structural damage was found.
Analysis: Bryant was a beast to close the season and finished 2012 with 92 catches for 1,382 yards and 12 touchdowns. He will enter 2013 as a Top 5 Fantasy receiver, and we expect him to be drafted some time in Round 2 or 3 in all leagues.
News: ESPN.com reports that test results revealed no structural damage to the back of Cowboys receiver Dez Bryant. In the regular-season finale against Washington, Bryant suffered a back injury in the second half and left FedEx Field in a wheelchair. Bryant, diagnosed with back spasms, was using crutches to walk on Tuesday. Bryant also has a fractured left index finger, suffered with three weeks to play in the regular season, and nothing has been determined as to when he'll undergo surgery.
Analysis: Bryant was a beast to close the season and finished 2012 with 92 catches for 1,382 yards and 12 touchdowns. He will enter 2013 as a Top 5 Fantasy receiver, and we expect him to be drafted some time in Round 3 in the majority of leagues.
News: Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant was forced out of Sunday's contest against the Redskins after suffering severe lower back spasm. Bryant missed a few plays and was taken to the locker room with under seven minutes remaining in the game. He was targeted eight times and caught four passes for 71 yards before getting hurt. He failed to return to the game. Bryant was seen leaving the stadium in a wheelchair after the game.
Analysis: Bryant, who continues to dismiss a fractured left index finger, tried to play through some lower back pain but it may have reached a point where the pain became unbearable. We'll continue to keep an eye on his status moving forward. Bryant has 1,202 yards and 12 receiving touchdowns on 92 receptions thus far as he emerged as one of the top wide receivers in the final stretch of the season. Consider him as an early round pick come Draft Day.
News: Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant was declared active for Sunday night's contest on the road at Washington in Week 17 as he continues to dismiss a fractured left index finger. Bryant ripped the Redskins apart for 145 yards and a touchdown on eight receptions in his previous meeting on Thanksgiving. He'll face a Washington defense that has allowed a touchdown to a wide receiver in all but three of their first 15 games this season. “There’s always room to get better,” Bryant said. “I know I’m not all the way there yet. Every day I feel like I’m getting closer and closer and closer. Not only me but everybody is going to continue make strides to get better at what they do.”
Analysis: Bryant was just starting to heat up during his last meeting against the Redskins. In fact, he has averaged 115.4 yards and a total of 10 touchdowns over his last seven games, including at least one in each game over that span. No other wide receiver has scored more touchdowns over that seven-game stretch than Bryant. Unlike some teams in the final week of the season, Bryant and the Cowboys will have to win Sunday's game to clinch a spot in the postseason, so there is still much at stake. Opposing wide receivers have scored an average of 26.8 Fantasy points per game this season, which is the second-most allowed in the league. He has scored a touchdown in each of the last two meetings against the Redskins and should be viewed as a must-start Fantasy option heading into the final week of the season.
News: Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant was a full participant in practice throughout the week leading up to Sunday's regular season finale at Washington in Week 17. He is listed as probable for Sunday's game as continues to dismiss a fractured left index finger. Bryant ripped the Redskins apart for 145 yards and a touchdown on eight receptions in his previous meeting on Thanksgiving. He'll face a Washington defense that has allowed a touchdown to a wide receiver in all but three of their first 15 games this season. “There’s always room to get better,” Bryant said. “I know I’m not all the way there yet. Every day I feel like I’m getting closer and closer and closer. Not only me but everybody is going to continue make strides to get better at what they do.”
Analysis: Bryant was just starting to heat up during his last meeting against the Redskins. In fact, he has averaged 115.4 yards and a total of 10 touchdowns over his last seven games, including at least one in each game over that span. No other wide receiver has scored more touchdowns over that seven-game stretch than Bryant. Unlike some teams in the final week of the season, Bryant and the Cowboys will have to win Sunday's game to clinch a spot in the postseason, so there is still much at stake. Opposing wide receivers have scored an average of 26.8 Fantasy points per game this season, which is the second-most allowed in the league. He has scored a touchdown in each of the last two meetings against the Redskins and should be viewed as a must-start Fantasy option heading into the final week of the season.
News: Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant has arguably been one of the hottest wide receivers in the league and will try to keep his recent success going heading into the final game of the regular season at Washington. Bryant ripped the Redskins apart for 145 yards and a touchdown on eight receptions in his previous meeting on Thanksgiving. He'll face a Washington defense that has allowed a touchdown to a wide receiver in all but three of their first 15 games this season. “There’s always room to get better,” Bryant said. “I know I’m not all the way there yet. Every day I feel like I’m getting closer and closer and closer. Not only me but everybody is going to continue make strides to get better at what they do.”
Analysis: Bryant was just starting to heat up during his last meeting against the Redskins. In fact, he has averaged 115.4 yards and a total of 10 touchdowns over his last seven games, including at least one in each game over that span. No other wide receiver has scored more touchdowns over that seven-game stretch than Bryant. Unlike some teams in the final week of the season, Bryant and the Cowboys will have to win Sunday's game to clinch a spot in the postseason, so there is still much at stake. Opposing wide receivers have scored an average of 26.8 Fantasy points per game this season, which is the second-most allowed in the league. He has scored a touchdown in each of the last two meetings against the Redskins and should be viewed as a must-start Fantasy option heading into the final week of the season.
News: Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant registered nine catches for a career-high 224 yards and two touchdowns during Dallas' 34-31 overtime loss to New Orleans in Week 16. Bryant, who was active after being listed as probable on the injury report with a finger issue, extended his scoring streak to seven games with a pair of 58-yard touchdown receptions in the second quarter, both from quarterback Tony Romo. He now has four outings this season with multiple touchdowns, including three over his past five games. All but 79 of his yards came in the first half as he didn't record his first catch after halftime until the fourth quarter.
Analysis: Bryant continues to move at full speed despite playing with a fractured left index finger and paced the team with 12 targets from Romo. It doesn't appear the injury will be an issue for the rest of the season and he is now tied for the NFL lead with 12 touchdown catches -- the first time in his three-year career he has posted double digits in scores. Bryant also catapulted into the top five of the league for receiving yards with 1,311 on the season as he continues to earn plenty of yards after the catch. Fantasy owners should keep him locked as a must-start option in all formats for Week 17 at Washington.
News: Dallas wide receiver Dez Bryant is active for Week 16 against New Orleans despite battling a fractured left index finger. Bryant, who was a limited participant in practice last week, played through the issue last Sunday and amassed four catches for 59 yards and a touchdown in a win over Pittsburgh. He will face a Saints defense that is weaker against the pass and has surrendered a whopping 287 yards per game through the air this season.
Analysis: Bryant displayed no problems with the injury last week and will not attempt to reach the end zone for the seventh consecutive game Sunday. The third-year wideout has been on a sterling run over the past six games, totaling 37 receptions for 584 yards and eight touchdowns -- one score shy of his totalin15 games last season (nine). New Orleans has had trouble stopping wide receivers this year and allowed the second-most Fantasy points to the position (26.4). He should remain active in all formats for Week 16.
News: Dallas wide receiver Dez Bryant (finger) is expected to remain in the starting lineup after being listed as probable for Week 16 against New Orleans. Bryant continues to dismiss a fractured left index finger and was a limited participant in practice over the past week. He played through the issue last Sunday and amassed four catches for 59 yards and a touchdown in a win over Pittsburgh. He will face a Saints defense that is weaker against the pass and has surrendered a whopping 287 yards per game through the air this season.
Analysis: Bryant displayed no problems with the injury last week and will not attempt to reach the end zone for the seventh consecutive game Sunday. The third-year wideout has been on a sterling run over the past six games, totaling 37 receptions for 584 yards and eight touchdowns -- one score shy of his totalin15 games last season (nine). New Orleans has had trouble stopping wide receivers this year and has allowed the second-most Fantasy points to the position (26.4). Barring any setbacks, he should remain active in all formats for Week 16.
News: According to The Dallas Morning News, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said after Sunday's win against the Steelers wide receiver Dez Bryant, who played through a fractured finger, will likely need a bone graft after the season to fix his injury. Jones said the procedure would involve taking bone tissue from Bryant's hip. Apparently, this was news to Bryant. “I haven’t heard anything like that,” Bryant said. “I don’t know if Mr. Jones was being sarcastic. I’m not letting anybody touch my hip.” Bryant finished with four receptions for 59 yards and one touchdown Week 15. “The finger felt fine,” Bryant said. “It felt way better than I thought. I feel like I can keep going with it.”
Analysis: Bryant seemed to be bothered early on by his fractured finger Week 15, but he settled into a groove after halftime, which is when he scored his touchdown. It wasn't a banner performance from Bryant, but he still did enough for Fantasy owners to have confidence in leaving him in active lineups heading into Week 16 against the Saints. Whatever procedure Bryant will have on his hand is expected to come after the season, so he will be available for Fantasy owners to start in the final weeks.
News: Dallas wide receiver Dez Bryant had an excellent performance in the Week 15 overtime win against Pittsburgh considering the injury he was dealing with entering the contest. Bryant could have opted for season-ending surgery on his fractured left index finger but decided to play through the issue. He started slowly but eventually caught a 24-yard touchdown pass from Tony Romo in the third quarter. Bryant finished the game with four catches for 59 yards and the score. He saw nine targets overall from Romo.
Analysis: There were moments in the Week 15 game that Bryant appeared to have made a poor decision by deciding to play on his fractured left index finger. Bryant had a couple early drops on passes you would expect him to catch from Romo. That said, Bryant came on strong after halftime and ended up catching a touchdown pass for the sixth straight game. Bryant has at least one TD catch in six straight and eight total over that span. He's now up to 10 touchdowns on the season for the Cowboys. As long as he remains active for Week 16 against New Orleans, Bryant will be a must-start Fantasy WR.
News: Dallas wide receiver Dez Bryant is officially active and starting for the Cowboys in the Week 15 game against Pittsburgh Sunday. Bryant was a question entering the week with a fractured left index finger. That said, reports surfaced later in the practice week that he would play and he will, indeed, start, despite being labeled questionable on the injury report.
Analysis: Bryant said earlier in the practice week he would have opted for surgery had the Cowboys not been in playoff contention and that leads us to believe he's definitely not at 100 percent. Bryant will face a Steelers defense that is first in the NFL against the pass, allowing just 169.2 yards per game through the air. The swelling in his finger has decreased substantially throughout the week, but we remain a little skeptical, especially against the solid defense of the Steelers. We still believe his talent makes him too valuable to bench. Keep him active in most Fantasy formats now that we know he's playing in the Week 15 game.
News: Dallas wide receiver Dez Bryant is likely to play Week 15 against Pittsburgh despite a fractured left index finger, CBSSports.com NFL Insider Jason La Canfora reported on Fantasy Football Today on Sunday morning. Bryant is officially listed as questionable on the team's injury report for the matchup after being limited in practice following his absence Wednesday. He said earlier this week he would have opted for season-ending surgery if the Cowboys were not in playoff contention. Bryant will face a Steelers defense that is first in the NFL against the pass, allowing just 169.2 yards per game through the air.
Analysis: Bryant, who has not missed any playing time this season, said the swelling in his left index finger has decreased substantially as the week has progressed. He has shined over his past five games as Dallas has surged back into playoff contention, registering 33 catches for 525 receiving yards and seven touchdowns in that span. It's clear he won't be at full strength Sunday, but his talent makes him too difficult to bench, especially during the Fantasy playoffs. The Steelers are allowing an average of 16.9 Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts, but Bryant should remain active in most formats for Week 15 as long as he plays -- just be aware of the risk.
News: Dallas wide receiver Dez Bryant is expected to suit up for Week 15 against Pittsburgh despite a fractured left index finger, ESPN reported Saturday. Bryant is officially listed as questionable on the team's injury report for the matchup after being limited in practice following his absence Wednesday. He said earlier this week he would have opted for season-ending surgery if the Cowboys were not in playoff contention. Bryant will face a Steelers defense that is first in the NFL against the pass, allowing just 169.2 yards per game through the air.
Analysis: Bryant, who has not missed any playing time this season, said the swelling in his left index finger has decreased substantially as the week has progressed. He has shined over his past five games as Dallas has surged back into playoff contention, registering 33 catches for 525 receiving yards and seven touchdowns in that span. It's clear he won't be at full strength Sunday, but his talent makes him too difficult to bench, especially during the Fantasy playoffs. The Steelers are allowing an average of 16.9 Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts, but Bryant should remain active in most formats for Week 15 as long as he plays.
News: Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant reiterated Friday that he expects to play through a finger injury during Week 15 against Pittsburgh, the Dallas Morning News reports. Bryant was limited in practice again Friday and is listed as questionable on the team's injury report. He said would have opted for season-ending surgery if the Cowboys were not in playoff contention. "The position that we are in that makes me want to be out there," he said. "I felt like if I go out there and am worrying about my finger, about catching the football, there is no need for me to be out there. I went out today in practice as if there wasn’t anything wrong with my finger. I feel like that’s my mindset about it."
Analysis: Bryant, who has not missed any playing time this season, said the swelling in his fractured left index finger has decreased substantially as the week has progresses. "I feel like I need to be out there," he said. "I want to go through everything I possibly can to see if I’m OK to go out there and play. I feel like I’m good." Bryant has shined over his past five games as Dallas has surged back into playoff contention, registering 33 catches for 525 receiving yards and seven touchdowns in that span. It's clear he won't be at full strength Sunday, but his talent makes him too difficult to bench, especially during the Fantasy playoffs. The Steelers are allowing an average of 16.9 Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts, but Bryant should remain active in most formats for Week 15 as long as he plays.
News: Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant told reporters Thursday, "The only thing y'all need to know is I'm gonna play." Bryant met with a hand specialist Wednesday, who confirmed surgery for a fractured left index finger, but Bryant intends to delay the operation. The Cowboys' medical staff will attempt to devise a way to protect the injured finger, so Bryant can function as a wide receiver, according to ESPN. Coach Jason Garrett said Thursday no decision has been made about Bryant's status for Week 15 vs. Pittsburgh. "We don’t have a definitive plan for Dez right now. He saw the doctor yesterday and nothing really changed," Garrett said. "We are going to give him every chance to play. If that is wait until Saturday (to catch passes), then we will wait until Saturday. If it's wait until Sunday, it's wait until Sunday. We will give him every chance to do it." Garrett said Bryant was able to take a couple of reps in practice Thursday and caught a few passes. Garrett indicated Wednesday if Bryant is unable to play, then he will be replaced by a committee approach, which includes Kevin Ogletree, Dwayne Harris and Cole Beasley.
Analysis: The key takeaway here is Bryant will "attempt" to play. That doesn't necessarily make him a must-start Fantasy option just because he suits up. There is always the risk of Bryant being limited to protect his injury or the risk of him suffering an in-game setback. We know Bryant has a high ceiling, but that's when he is 100 percent. This is an injury to his hand, which is obviously very important to a receiver. There is no denying Bryant has been outstanding lately. He is averaging 105 receiving yards and 18 Fantasy points in his last five games. He also has seven touchdowns in that span. It's just that if Bryant plays and you choose to start him in Fantasy, then understand the risk of making such a move.
News: Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant was held out of practice Wednesday because he was getting his broken finger examined by another hand specialist, according to coach Jason Garrett. Bryant is contemplating having season-ending surgery or continuing to play through the injury, which could cause permanent damage. ESPN reports Bryant did show up to practice Wednesday and had no medical equipment on his injury left index finger. Dallas hosts Pittsburgh Week 15. Garrett indicated if Bryant is done for the season, then he will be replaced by a committee approach, which includes Kevin Ogletree, Dwayne Harris and Cole Beasley.
Analysis: It remains a waiting game in regards to Bryant's status. We hope it won't be too much longer until we know his status for Week 15 and the rest of the season. Fantasy owners might want to have a healthier alternative available in case Bryant is unable to play Sunday. After an inconsistent first half, Bryant has been very steady for Fantasy owners lately. He is averaging 105 receiving yards and 18 Fantasy points in his last five games. He also has seven touchdowns in that span. Ogletree is listed as Bryant's backup on the team's official website, so he could be a player who benefits from Bryant's absence, but it seems Garrett isn't ready to anoint him Bryant's replacement. Miles Austin and Jason Witten would definitely benefit if Bryant is unable to finish out the season.
News: Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said during his weekly radio show Tuesday wide receiver Dez Bryant will be the "ultimate decision-maker" in regards to having season-ending surgery on his broken finger or risking permanent damage by continuing to play. “We are still having it reviewed by medical people,” Jones said, per the San Antonio Express-News. “It has not been decided, and Dez will be the ultimate decision-maker as to whether or not he wants to continue to try to play with a lot of protection or whether he should have surgery. The reason for the surgery is because you could have a life-lasting stiffness there that (hand experts in the medical field) know you can avoid if you get in there and fix it. But make no mistake about it, Dez is chomping at the bit and wants to take the route of playing. Unlike concussions, which we have rules they can’t play ... you can go ahead and play with this.”
Analysis: ESPN.com reports Bryant is scheduled to visit team doctors on Wednesday, so Fantasy owners might not have to wait very long in deciding what to do with Bryant leading up to Week 15. It's unfortunate Bryant is dealing with a major injury at the most crucial time of the season for Fantasy owners. After an inconsistent first half, Bryant has been very steady for Fantasy options lately. He is averaging 105 receiving yards and 18 Fantasy points in his last five games. He also has seven touchdowns in that span. Kevin Ogletree is listed as Bryant's backup on the team's official website, so he could be a player who benefits from Bryant's absence. Miles Austin and Jason Witten would also benefit if Bryant is unable to finish out the season.
News: The Cowboys' official website reports wide receiver Dez Bryant could be out for the rest of the season depending on the results of his visit with a hand specialist. Bryant suffered a finger injury Week 14 that could require surgery. 105.3 The Fan reports Bryant has torn ligaments in his finger and will have season-ending surgery, but ESPN reports he has a fractured index finger. There has been no confirmation yet from the Cowboys. Coach Jason Garrett told the team's official website he put Bryant's chances at missing the rest of the season at 50 percent
Analysis: If this report turns out to be true, then Fantasy owners are going to lose one of their best players in the most important time of the season. After an inconsistent first half, Bryant has been very steady for Fantasy options lately. He is averaging 105 receiving yards and 18 Fantasy points in his last five games. He also has seven touchdowns in that span. Kevin Ogletree is listed as Bryant's backup on the team's official website, so he could be a player who benefits from Bryant's absence. Miles Austin and Jason Witten would also benefit.
News: Cowboys receiver Dez bryant caught four of six targets from Tony Romo for 50 yards including a nice 27-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter of the team's Week 14 win at Cincinnati. Bryant had a pass go through his hands in the first half and didn't catch a pass otherwise but came up with numbers in the second half. He also suffered a sprained left finger in the fourth quarter but remained in the game and wore a splint after the game, ESPN reports.
Analysis: By comparison, this is Bryant's worst game in his last five, but he still has a five-game touchdown streak where he's posted seven scores with over 500 yards receiving. Assuming his finger doesn't keep him out (he played through it on Sunday) he'll take on a Steelers defense that got walloped at home by the visiting Chargers and should continue to roll. Keep him active in Week 15 as a must-start receiver.
News:Dez Bryant will play at Cincinnati in Week 14, and while expectations are through the roof for him considering his last four games (29 catches, 228 yards, six touchdowns), the matchup is a challenge. The Bengals have allowed 106.0 yards per game just to receivers over their last four games with only one touchdown allowed, keeping players like Victor Cruz, Hakeem Nicks, Denarius Moore and Danario Alexander in relative check over their last four games.
Analysis: On the plus side, Bryant has 29 catches on 37 targets over his last four games, so he's catching a lot of what Romo is throwing at him. The matchup is difficult, but Bryant has been too hot to sit and should remain in Fantasy lineups. Keep him active in all formats heading into Week 14.
News: Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant posted his third multi-touchdown performance of the season and his second consecutive multi-touchdown game during Sunday's contest against the Eagles in Week 13. Bryant did not make his first catch of the night until the 2:04 mark in the second quarter, but managed to finish with six catches on six targets for 98 yards and two touchdowns in a 38-33 victory. Tony Romo connected with him in the third quarter for a 23-yard strike and then a 6-yard strike in the fourth quarter for his seventh touchdown of the season.
Analysis: Bryant, who has seven touchdowns this season, is two touchdowns away from surpassing his career-high mark set in 2011. He has come on as of late and has racked up 388 yards receiving with five touchdowns in his last three games. Bryant has extended his scoring streak to four games and will try to keep his streak going at Cincinnati in Week 14. The Bengals have allowed an average of 16.8 Fantasy points per game against opposing wide receivers. The 24-year-old is one of the hottest receivers in Fantasy right now and should kept active in all formats heading into Week 14.
News: Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant will be looking for his third consecutive game of 145-plus receiving yards at home against the Eagles in Week 13. Bryant has caught 20 passes for 290 yards and three touchdowns in his last two games. He will face a Philadelphia defense that has allowed at least a touchdown to a wide receiver in all but two of the first 12 games of the season. Bryant hauled in three catches for 87 yards and a touchdown in his last meeting against the Eagles in Week 10.
Analysis: Bryant has been on a roll as of late and has scored at least a touchdown in each of his last three games. He has also posted 14-plus Fantasy points in four of his last five games. He has four 100-yard performances this season and is 10th in the league with 65 receptions. With Miles Austin still dealing with a hip injury, Bryant could be in for more targets yet again this Sunday. Opposing wide receivers have allowed 21.6 Fantasy points per game this season. Fantasy owners should view the 24-year-old as a must-start option heading into Week 13.
News: Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant had his second-straight game with 145 receiving yards on Thursday, but scored two touchdowns in Week 12, as opposed to the paltry one he managed against the Browns. Bryant was targeted 11 times and had eight receptions. He is firmly in "must start" territory heading into a Week 13 showdown with the Eagles.
Analysis: Making Bryant's feat more impressive was the fact that Miles Austin left the game in the first quarter with a hip injury, so Bryant was lining up alongside Dwyane Harris and Cole Beasley. Bryant caught three passes for 87 yards and a touchdown in Week 10 against the Eagles, and that was while he was playing through groin and hip injuries. Bryant did fumble for his second time in five games, but he now has four touchdowns in his last three, so it all evens out. And one of those touchdowns was a diving grab at the edge of the end zone that he somehow held onto. This was Bryant's fourth 100-yard game this season, and he now has 290 yards in his last two games. He should be started in all leagues going forward.
News: Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant is set up for a nice game on Thanksgiving against Washington, a team that has allowed the third-most Fantasy points to opposing wide receivers this year. While Washington has been strong lately, allowing an average of 13.7 Fantasy points per game over its last three to opposing wide receivers, the run has featured games against the Eagles (the Nick Foles version), the Panthers, and the Steelers -- offenses that rank in the bottom half of the league.
Analysis: Bryant has averaged 17 Fantasy points over his last two games, which is far more telling than the four points he averaged the three games prior, as he was battling groin and hip injuries over that stretch. But in Weeks 10 and 11, Bryant scored two touchdowns -- one against a formidable Eagles secondary and one against the Joe Haden-less Browns. Against the Browns in Week 11, Bryant set a career-high in receiving yards, with 145 (on 15 targets). Expect a healthy Bryant to keep up the production on Thanksgiving against Washington. He should be started in all leagues.
News: Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant took advantage of a Joe Haden-less Browns' secondary to net a career-high 145 yards on 12 catches Week 11 vs. Cleveland. The 12 catches were the second-most Bryant ever had in a single game. He had 13 catches earlier this season against Baltimore. Bryant also contributed his fourth touchdown of the season Sunday. Bryant gave Dallas a 17-13 lead when he hauled in a 28-yard touchdown with 6:46 left in the fourth quarter. It gave him a touchdown in two straight games. “I feel like no matter how much anybody praises me, it’s not going to change my mindset,” Bryant said, per The Dallas Morning News. “It’s not going to ease me, or whatever. I’m focused on this game. I like what I got going on right now.”
Analysis: The Browns announced prior to Sunday's game Haden wouldn't play because of an oblique injury. Bryant owners everywhere rejoiced. Had Haden played, then it would have probably been a different story for Bryant. But Sheldon Brown couldn't keep up with him Sunday, and Bryant turned in a big performance. He has been much better as of late. Bryant still is having some bad games, but he is averaging 83 yards and has totaled four touchdowns in his last seven games. Bryant remains a viable Fantasy start heading into Week 12 vs. Washington (Thursday).
News: The Browns announced Sunday morning top cornerback Joe Haden was ruled inactive Week 11 at Dallas because of an oblique injury. His absence is good news for the Cowboys offense, especially for the likes of quarterback Tony Romo and wide receivers Dez Bryant and Miles Austin.
Analysis: Haden was out four games (Week 2-5) earlier this season because of a suspension and the Browns defense struggled without him. In the four games Haden was sidelined, quarterbacks averaged 28.5 Fantasy points per week. Fantasy owners should strongly consider starting Romo, Bryant and Austin Week 11.
News: Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant has surpassed 80 receiving yards five times this season. He will look to get past that benchmark again Week 11 vs. Cleveland. Wide receivers average 174 receiving yards and 25.9 Fantasy points per week against the Browns. Receivers also have 13 touchdowns in nine games against Cleveland.
Analysis: The trend lately for Bryant has been alternating between good and bad games. He had a good game Week 10 at Philadelphia, so if recent history prevails, then Bryant is looking at a down week. Although, you have to be really superstitious to buy into that. Bryant has been banged up the last few weeks, which has probably attributed to him having just four catches in his last two games. It probably also has to do with Bryant continuing to draw the opposing team's best cornerback, which could be the case again Week 11 since shutdown corner Joe Haden will be across the line of scrimmage. Bryant has been a little inconsistent as of late, but he still remains a viable Fantasy start Week 11.
News: Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant hauled in his third touchdown catch of the season in Week 10 against the Eagles. Bryant was on the receiving end of a 30-yard strike from Tony Romo on the final play of the third quarter. The play was reviewed but eventually upheld after the replay booth took a look at it. Bryant also hauled in a 49-yard reception in the second quarter, which helped set up a Dan Bailey field goal. He finished with three receptions for 89 yards and a score in the 38-23 win.
Analysis: Bryant didn't see many passes thrown in his direction Sunday afternoon but made the ones that were count. The 24-year-old also seems to be getting over the back injury that he has been dealing with over the last few weeks as he looked a but more spry than he had in recent weeks. Now Bryant will look to keep things rolling when the Browns head to town in Week 11. Cleveland has struggled to defend the pass at times this season so we would expect Bryant to see plenty of looks next Sunday. Consider him a viable option in most formats next week.
News: As expected, Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant (back) was ruled active for Week 10 against the Eagles. Bryant, who was able to practice without restriction this week, will be facing a Philadelphia defense that is allowing an average of 229 passing yards per contest. The Eagles have surrendered 12 touchdowns through the air while yielding an average of 21 Fantasy points to opposing WRs. Bryant has racked up nine receptions for 90 yards in his two career meetings against the Eagles.
Analysis: Bryant seemed to be hampered by his injury last week as he turned in his worst statistical performance of the season. However, he seems to be getting over his issue as he was able to practice without restriction this week. While Bryant's numbers against the Eagles aren't overly impressive, he continues to be one of Tony Romo's favorite targets in the passing game as his 66 targets rank third on the team and he is ranked second in receptions (42). Consider Bryant a viable low-end option in all formats this week.
News: Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant (hip) was able to practice in full for the third straight day Friday and is being listed as probable for Dallas' Week 10 matchup against the Eagles. He will be facing a Philadelphia defense that is allowing an average of 229 passing yards per contest. The Eagles have surrendered 12 touchdowns through the air while yielding an average of 21 Fantasy points to opposing WRs. Bryant has racked up nine receptions for 90 yards in his two career meetings against the Eagles.
Analysis: Bryant seemed to be bothered by his hip injury last week as he turned in his worst statistical performance of the year against the Falcons. However, he appears to be getting healthier now as he was able to practice in full all week. While Bryant's numbers against the Eagles aren't overly impressive, he continues to be one of Tony Romo's favorite targets in the passing game as his 66 targets rank third on the team and he is ranked second in receptions with 42 on the year. Fantasy owners should consider Bryant as a viable low-end option in all formats in Week 10.
News: Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant (hip) was able to practice in full Wednesday as his team prepares for Sunday's contest against the Eagles in Week 10. Bryant, who failed to practice last week, was held to a season-low one catch in last week's loss to the Falcons and he gained just 15 yards on his lone reception. He will be facing an Eagles defense that is allowing an average of 229 passing yards per contest. Philadelphia has surrendered 12 touchdowns through the air while yielding an average of 21 Fantasy points to opposing WRs. Bryant has racked up nine receptions for 90 yards in his two career meetings against the Eagles.
Analysis: Bryant turned in his worst statistical performance of the season last week, but was probably slowed by his hip injury. While Bryant's numbers against the Eagles aren't overly impressive, he continues to be one of Tony Romo's favorite targets in the passing game as his 66 targets rank third on the team and he is ranked second in receptions with 42 on the year. Fantasy owners should consider Bryant as a viable low-end option in all formats in Week 10.
News: Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant will be looking to turn in a bounce-back performance in Week 10 against the Eagles. Bryant was held to a season-low one catch in last week's loss to the Falcons and he gained just 15 yards on his lone reception. He will be facing an Eagles defense that is allowing an average of 229 passing yards per contest. Philadelphia has surrendered 12 touchdowns through the air while yielding an average of 21 Fantasy points to opposing WRs. Bryant has racked up nine receptions for 90 yards in his two career meetings against the Eagles.
Analysis: Bryant turned in his worst statistical performance of the season last week, but to be fair he was dealing with a hip injury. The 24-year-old will likely find himself on the injury report again this week, albeit he should be able to suit up Sunday afternoon. While Bryant's numbers against the Eagles aren't overly impressive, he continues to be one of Tony Romo's favorite targets in the passing game as his 66 targets rank third on the team and he is ranked second in receptions (42). As long as he is healthy enough to stay on the field, Bryant can be considered a viable low-end option in all formats in Week 10.
News: Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant was able to suit up in Week 9 against the Falcons but was not much of a factor. After missing a couple of practices leading up to Sunday due to a hip injury, he caught just one pass for 15 yards in the 19-13 loss. His lone grab came in the first half. Bryant was targeted by quarterback Tony Romo four times in the loss. “During the game, it was fine,” Bryant said, per ESPN.com. “(A pain-killing injection) helped out a lot. Still could feel it a little bit, but the game got going. You know how that is. That takes away a lot of pain because you’re excited and all that.”
Analysis: Bryant was obviously slowed by his injury Sunday and finished with his worst performance of the season. While the Falcons did a decent job of limiting the Cowboys all night long, owners definitely don't like seeing such low totals from the 24-year-old. Keep an eye on his status leading up to Week 10 against the Eagles to make sure this hip issue will not continue to hinder Bryant. Bryant caught nine passes for 90 yards in two games against Philadelphia a year ago and should be considered a viable option in the majority of Fantasy formats, when healthy.
News: Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant has been ruled active for Week 9 against the Falcons. He suffered a hip injury last week and missed a couple of practices leading up to Sunday's contest. Atlanta ranks 10th in the league in pass defense, giving up under 217 yards per game, and has held opposing wideouts to an average of 17.1 Fantasy points per week.
Analysis: There had been reports that Bryant was going to play against the Falcons and it looks like he should be good to go. Keep an eye on how he does Sunday night, however, to make sure he does not suffer a setback. While Atlanta has been tough against the pass thus far, consider Bryant a viable option in most formats for Week 9 since he has been ruled active.
News: NFL Network reports Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant, who is questionable for Week 9 at Atlanta, is pushing hard to play Sunday. However, he is a true game-time decision and his hip injury is causing him pain. The Falcons rank 10th in the NFL against the pass this year, permitting 216.9 passing yards a game. Atlanta is allowing an average of 17.1 Fantasy points per game to wide receivers.
Analysis: This is definitely an interesting report. It seems even if Bryant takes the field Sunday, then he might not be 100 percent and he could see limited reps. Perhaps Fantasy owners should look toward healthier alternatives Week 9, if that is an option. If you have to rely on Bryant, then wish for the best.
News: Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant returned to practice Friday after missing the previous two sessions with a lingering hip issue. Bryant suffered the injury late last Sunday against the Giants and is officially questionable for Week 9 at Atlanta. "Dez is still recovering from the fall he took at the end of the Giant game," coach Jason Garrett told reporters before Friday's practice. "He landed on his back or backside. He’s still kind of getting himself back from that." The Falcons ranks 10th in the NFL against the pass this year, permitting 216.9 passing yards a game.
Analysis: Bryant said Thursday he expects to play against Atlanta and his latest practice status affirms that possibility. He was clearly shaken up by the injury last Sunday and was moving gingerly on the sidelines after the play. Bryant is coming off a strong outing when he registered a season-high 110 yards on five receptions and narrowly missing a touchdown on the play he was injured. Atlanta is allowing an average of 17.1 Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts this year, but Bryant continues to be heavily targeted by quarterback Tony Romo and should remain active in all formats if healthy.
News: After several media outlets reported Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant (hip) returning to practice Thursday, he was officially listed as did not practice. Dallas plays at Atlanta Week 9. Atlanta ranks 10th in the league in pass defense, giving up under 217 yards per game, and has held opposing wideouts to an average of 17.1 Fantasy points per week. “My hip’s bothering me a little bit, but I don’t think it’s going to stop me from playing Sunday,” Bryant said, per ESPN.com. “I’m ready.”
Analysis: Well, this is certainly disappointing news. The Cowboys have said this injury isn't severe, but there still appears to be a chance Bryant doesn't play Sunday. Check back for Friday's injury report status to get the latest about Bryant's availability. Bryant had a great October, totaling 28 catches for 324 yards and two touchdowns in four games. If he is active Sunday against Atlanta, then he remains a viable Fantasy start.
News: Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant took to the practice field Thursday after sitting out Wednesday to rest a hip injury, increasing his chances of playing Week 9 at Atlanta. Atlanta ranks 10th in the league in pass defense, giving up under 217 yards per game, and has held opposing wideouts to an average of 17.1 Fantasy points per week.
Analysis: The Cowboys have held Bryant's injury isn't severe and the fact he is back practicing is a good sign. He still might be questionable for Sunday's game, but we just have to see what his practice status is on Friday. Bryant had a great October, totaling 28 catches for 324 yards and two touchdowns in four games. If he is active Sunday against Atlanta, then he remains a viable Fantasy start.
News: Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant, who sustained a hip injury late in the game Week 8 vs. N.Y. Giants, missed practice Wednesday as the team prepares for Week 9 against the Falcons. Atlanta ranks 10th in the league in pass defense, giving up under 217 yards per game, and has held opposing wideouts to an average of 17.1 Fantasy points.
Analysis: Coach Jason Garrett said Monday Bryant's injury isn't considered severe, but it's never comforting to see a player miss practice. The good news is that it's early in the practice week. If Bryant continues to miss more practices, then we will sound the alarm. For now, it's a wait-and-see approach. Bryant had a great October, totaling 28 catches for 324 yards and two touchdowns in four games. If he is active Sunday against Atlanta, then he remains a viable Fantasy start.
News:USA Today reports Cowboys coach Jason Garrett said wide receiver Dez Bryant hurt his hip Week 8 vs. N.Y. Giants, but "we don't think it's that severe." The Cowboys are at Atlanta Week 9.
Analysis: Bryant was almost the hero Week 8 as he appeared to haul in a game-winning 37-yard touchdown in the final seconds. But upon further review, Bryant's fingers came down out of bounds before his body, nullifying the touchdown catch. He was on the ground being evaluated by trainers for a few minutes before walking off the field. It doesn't sound as though Bryant will sit out Sunday's game, but it's worth keeping tabs on his progress. Bryant had a great October, totaling 28 catches for 324 yards and two touchdowns in four games. If he is active Sunday against Atlanta, then he remains a viable Fantasy start.
News: Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant was almost the hero of Week 8 against the Giants as he appeared to haul in a game-winning 37-yard scoring strike in the closing minutes of the contest. He was able to get behind the secondary with under a minute left and Dallas trailing by five points and made an acrobatic catch. But upon further review, Bryant's fingers came down out of bounds before his body, nullifying the touchdown catch. “When they took it away my heart just dropped,” Bryant told the Dallas Morning News. “I had my mind set on if the ball is thrown to me, I don’t care, I’m going to come down with it. And I came down with it. I thought I was in. It was frustrating.” While he also lost a fumble on a punt return, Bryant ended up having a pretty productive Week 8 as he caught five passes for 110 yards in the 29-24 loss. He was targeted 11 times and finished third on Dallas in receiving behind tight end Jason Witten (167 yards) and wideout Miles Austin (133 yards).
Analysis: Bryant put his big-play abilities on display Sunday as he averaged 22 yards per reception and was a few inches away from hauling in his third touchdown grab of the season. After posting just two catches for 14 yards his last time out, owners will definitely take it and should have more confidence in the 23-year-old going forward. He has gone over the century mark twice so far this season and is on pace for a career campaign. Bryant should remain active in the majority of Fantasy formats for Week 9 against the Falcons.
News: Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant was held to 14 yards on two catches during Week 7 against the Cowboys after entering the contest with a groin injury. Bryant told the Dallas News Tuesday that he had been dealing with groin soreness for more than a “week or so” but does not think it will affect him much going forward. “It’s nothing major, just something that I need to rest and I’ll be ready,” Bryant said.
Analysis: Bryant will likely turn up on the injury report leading up to Week 8 against the Giants but should be able to play. New York ranks 21st in the league in pass defense, giving up over 253 yards per game, and has allowed an average of 25.4 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts. Bryant had posted 21 catches for 200 yards and two touchdowns before taking a step back in Week 7 but has a good chance of getting back on track against the Giants Sunday. The 23-year-old gained 85 yards on four catches against the divisional foe earlier in the year so keep Bryant active in the majority of Fantasy formats for Week 8.
News: Cowboys receiver Dez Bryant, who come into Sunday's game at Carolina in Week 7 nursing a sore groin, struggled against the Panthers. He was held to just two catches for 14 yards on three targets. He also added three punt returns for 17 yards.
Analysis: Bryant came into this game with 21 catches for 200 yards and two touchdowns in his past two games against the Bears and Ravens, and this was a disappointing performance to say the least. His injury was not considered a problem, but maybe it contributed to his poor play. We hope he can rebound against the Giants in Week 8, and Bryant had four catches for 85 yards in Week 1 at the Giants. Bryant should remain a starting option in most formats.
News: Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant, who was questionable with a groin injury, is active and starting Week 7 at Carolina. Carolina is surrendering an average of 17.8 Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts this season and three touchdowns to the position in the past two weeks.
Analysis: Bryant is coming off a career-high 13 catches against Baltimore with his first two touchdowns of the season. He leads the Cowboys with 34 catches for 364 yards through five games. He left Friday's practice with the groin injury, but he won't miss any game action. There is always the risk he suffers an in-game setback, but Bryant has been so good lately, he is still worth starting in Fantasy.
News: Dallas wide receiver Dez Bryant is expected to be active and starting the Week 7 game at Carolina on Sunday, reports ESPN's Adam Schefter Saturday. The report says, barring a setback, Bryant is expected to play after leaving practice on Friday with a groin injury and being listed as questionable on the injury report. Bryant is coming off a career-high 13 catches against Baltimore with his first two touchdowns of the season. He leads the Cowboys with 34 catches for 364 yards through five games.
Analysis: Bryant has finally become the top target for Tony Romo as we hoped he would. Bryant has gone off for 21 catches for 200 yards and two scores over his last two games as he's figuring it out right now. Bryant sounds as if he's going to play Sunday, so Fantasy owners shouldn't be too worried. Kevin Ogletree would definitely see a boost in value if Bryant ends up out, though. Carolina is surrendering an average of 17.8 Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts this season and three touchdowns to the position in the past two weeks. As long as he's active, Bryant should remain a starter in all Fantasy formats for Week 7.
News: Dallas wide receiver Dez Bryant was listed as questionable on the team's injury report for Week 7 at Carolina after leaving Friday's practice with an groin issue. Bryant has been able to practice all week, but apparently suffered the injury early on Friday. A source told CBSSports.com that Bryant is sore but still has an opportunity to play Sunday. Bryant is coming off a career-high 13 catches against Baltimore with his first two touchdowns of the season. He leads the Cowboys with 34 catches for 364 yards through five games.
Analysis: Bryant has emerged as quarterback Tony Romo's preferred target and enters the matchup with the Panthers with 21 catches for 200 yards and two touchdowns in his past two games. He has netted 33 Fantasy points over that span, while being targeted 28 times. If Bryant can't play Sunday, Cole Beasley could be activated, although Kevin Ogletree would start. Carolina is surrendering an average of 17.8 Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts this season and three touchdowns to the position in the past two weeks. As long as he's active, he should remain a starter in all Fantasy formats for Week 7.
News: Cowboys receiver Dez Bryant has taken off in his past two games, and he's looking to remain hot in Week 7 at Carolina. Bryant comes into this matchup with the Panthers with 21 catches for 200 yards and two touchdowns in his past two games against the Bears and Ravens. He has 33 Fantasy points over that span, and he's been targeted 28 times. We'd like to see him avoid some of the dropped passes, but he's been Tony Romo's go-to guy of late.
Analysis: Bryant has the chance for another solid game against the Panthers. Carolina has allowed four touchdowns to opposing receivers and two have reached double digits in Fantasy points. Even in a bad matchup, you'd be starting Bryant at this point. He is starting to look like the third-year breakout receiver we expected this season.
News: It took 25 games for the Ravens to allow multiple passing touchdowns in a game. On Sunday, the same receiver caught them both. Dez Bryant caught 13 passes for 95 yards and two touchdowns in Week 6, scalding the Ravens secondary once starting cornerback Lardarius Webb went down with a serious knee injury in the first quarter. Bryant scored on a 7-yard touchdown catch from Tony Romo on a gorgeous back-shoulder throw in front of the front-left pylon and again caught a 2-yard jump ball from Romo late in the fourth quarter. His 13 grabs were a career high, but it was a pass that went through his hands on a two-point conversion that helped push the Cowboys to their third loss.
Analysis: Bryant had left a lot of stats on the field this season but not this week. He caught 13 of 15 passes thrown his way and had his way with the Ravens cornerbacks thanks to his physical nature. More of the same should be expected in Week 7 at Carolina, a game he should continue to be dominant in.
News: After some early inconsistency, Dallas wide receiver Dez Bryant took a step in the right direction during his previous game against Chicago and tallied season highs in receptions (eight) and yards (105). But his performance was marred by several costly drops, including one that would probably would have given him his first touchdown of the season. Still, he continued to receive the support of his teammates heading into Week 6 at Baltimore. "He’s doing a good job," quarterback Tony Romo said. "He is working hard. He has come a long way in his three years. He is starting to understand the game better, and every week that goes by, he gets better and better."
Analysis: Bryant now comes off the Cowboys' bye week still in search of his first touchdown and with the hopes of posting back-to-back 100-yard outings for the initial time in his short career. As expected, he is arguably Romo's favorite receiving target and has garnered 21 looks over the past two weeks, but his scoreless streak has reached six games dating back to last season. The Ravens are stout in defending the pass, but opposing receivers are still managing an average of 20.0 Fantasy points per game this season. Bryant remains a fine starting option in the majority of formats for Week 6.
News: Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant registered his first 100-yard receiving performance of the season in Week 4 against the Bears. Bryant hauled in eight receptions for 105 yards in the 34-18 defeat and also came down with a two-point conversion late in the fourth quarter. However, he also had three drops, including on what looked to be a sure touchdown pass in the fourth quarter. Bryant had a long 25 yards and averaged 13.1 yards per reception. He was targeted 13 times, which was second to Jason Witten's 14 looks.
Analysis: Bryant turned in a decent performance in Week 4, albeit he could have had an even bigger day if he could hold onto the ball. The 23-year-old continues to be one of the more frustrating Fantasy options out there right now, as he has been leaving way too many plays on the field. He has yet to find the end zone and now will have to wait at least two weeks to do so as the Cowboys have a bye in Week 5. However, things won't get any easier for Bryant and Dallas' offense moving forward with the Ravens looming on the schedule in Week 6. Despite his up-and-down season thus far, Bryant remains one of Tony Romo's favorite targets and should continue to see plenty of passes thrown in his direction moving forward. Continue to view him as a viable start in most formats when the Cowboys face the Ravens in two weeks.
News: Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant will be looking to get into the end zone for the first time this season in Week 4 against the Bears. Bryant has hauled in 13 receptions for 164 yards over his first three games, but has not scored a touchdown yet. Miles Austin and Kevin Ogletree are tied for the team lead with two TDs each. Chicago enters the contest ranked sixth in pass defense after surrendering an average of 203 yards through the air thus far. Bryant hauled in two receptions for 52 yards in his lone meeting against the Bears and also returned a punt 62 yards for a score in that contest.
Analysis: After gaining 85 yards on four grabs in the season opener, Bryant has been fairly quiet over his next two contests. Still, his 20 targets and 13 receptions rank second on the team after three weeks, so it is not like Tony Romo hasn't been looking in his direction. Fantasy owners have been waiting for the 23-year-old to turn in a breakout performance and are hoping it comes this week against Chicago. However, that could be easier said than done as the Bears have only allowed three touchdowns through the air thus far while surrendering an average of 17.3 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts. Despite his relatively slow start, Bryant should once again see plenty of passes thrown in his direction this week, so Fantasy owners should leave him active in the majority of formats Monday night.
News: Dallas wide receiver Dez Bryant put forth a decent performance in the Week 3 win over the Buccaneers Sunday. Bryant was targeted eight times by quarterback Tony Romo as he came down with six receptions for 62 yards. Bryant had a long grab of 18 yards in the game and did not score. No wide receiver scored for Dallas, but Miles Austin did make five grabs for 107 yards.
Analysis: Bryant caught four passes for 85 yards in the opener, but has been held to just nine catches for 89 yards in his last two games. He's yet to score this season, though we feel his first TD could come Week 4 against the Bears. Bryant has been held in check in the early part of the season, but he's always worth starting in Fantasy. You don't want him on your bench in the game he actually goes off.
News: Cowboys coach Jason Garrett backed wide receiver Dez Bryant heading into Week 3 vs. Tampa Bay despite a slow start for the third-year receiver. "Dez is like everybody else, you just got to keep playing through the tough parts of a ballgame and of stretches of ballgames," Garrett said Wednesday, per ESPN. "Just got to come back this week, and he's certainly a big part of what we're doing. The defensive teams that we go up against know who No. 88 is, and we certainly do too. We're going to try and help him get going and he's certainly a big part of that as well. It will be a big challenge this week against these corners (Aqib Talib and Eric Wright)."
Analysis: Bryant has just seven catches for 102 yards and no touchdowns through two games. Not exactly the production the Cowboys or Fantasy owners envisioned. Bryant's slow start does mean he is more of a risky start heading into Week 3, but remember the Giants' Hakeem Nicks and Victor Cruz shredded the Bucs secondary in Week 2, so perhaps Bryant can finally break out this week. He did total four catches for 40 yards and a touchdown last season against the Bucs. Tampa Bay is yielding 41 Fantasy points per week to wide receivers, which is the highest average in the NFL. Wide receivers also have three touchdowns against the Bucs.
News: Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant couldn't come up with most of the balls thrown his way in Week 2 against the Seahawks. He was targeted seven times by quarterback Tony Romo, coming up with just three catches for 17 yards in the 27-7 loss. Bryant did not record his first grab until the third quarter and averaged 5.7 yards per reception. Bryant also returned two punts in the defeat, gaining a net of 2 yards.
Analysis: Seattle did a solid job of taking Bryant out of the passing game on Sunday as his long reception went for 11 yards. After gaining 85 yards on four grabs in the season opener, owners were hoping for more of the same in Week 2 but Dallas' passing game struggled for much of the contest. The 23-year-old will look to get back on track in Week 3 against the Buccaneers. Bryant caught four passes for 40 yards and a touchdown when he faced Tampa Bay a year ago so continue to view him as a viable solid in the majority of Fantasy formats.
News: Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant will be going up against a Seahawks team in Week 2 that he had success against a year ago. He caught four passes for 76 yards when he faced Seattle in 2012. The Seahawks allowed 210 passing yards in their season opener and surrendered 22 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts.
Analysis: Bryant gained 85 yards on four catches in the season opener as he continues to be the big play threat for Dallas. The emergence of Kevin Ogletree gives him some more competition in the passing game but the 23-year-old has proven time and again to be a reliable option for quarterback Tony Romo. Bryant appears to have a favorable matchup for Week 2 so keep him active in the majority of Fantasy formats against the Seahawks.
News: Dallas wide receiver Dez Bryant had a solid performance in the Week 1 season-opening win at New York Wednesday. Getting most of his production in the first half, Bryant finished with four catches for 85 yards. He would have led the Cowboys in yardage had it not been for the emergence of Kevin Ogletree, who finished with eight catches for 114 yards and two touchdowns. Miles Austin also scored for the Cowboys on the night as Bryant did not. Bryant was targeted five times by quarterback Tony Romo.
Analysis: Bryant didn't have a huge performance in the season's opening game. That said, he certainly appeared to be the No. 1 receiver that he is for the Cowboys. His mere presence on the field opened things up for the likes of Ogletree to erupt for the Cowboys. We expect big things from Bryant all season and he didn't show us anything differently against the Giants Week 1. Fantasy owners can continue to start him across the board entering Week 2 at Seattle.
News: Dallas wide receiver Dez Bryant (foot) was not listed among the team's inactives for Week 1 Wednesday at New York. Bryant was listed on the injury report as probable for the game and was always expected to start alongside Miles Austin.
Analysis: Bryant has become quarterback Tony Romo's top weapon with Austin the second option in the passing game. The last time Bryant played in New York was Week 17 of last season when he caught six passes for 70 yards. Bryant scored a 50-yard touchdown against the Giants in Week 14 at home for his only catch of the game. Bryant is a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Dallas wide receiver Dez Bryant (knee) was a full participant in practice Monday as the team continues to prepare for its Week 1 matchup against the Giants on Wednesday. Bryant has not been limited by patellar tendinitis in his right knee the past two days and is expected to be in the starting lineup for season opener. Bryant got off to a hot start last season Week 1 against the Jets at the MetLife Stadium with three catches for 71 yards and a touchdown. He'll look to get off to an equally strong start against the other N.Y. team in the same stadium Wednesday.
Analysis: After a tumultuous offseason, Bryant believes he is a changed man heading into Week 1. But all Fantasy owners will care about is him catching Tony Romo's passes. Bryant has become the quarterback's top weapon with Miles Austin the second option in the passing game. The last time Bryant played in New York was Week 17 of last season when he caught six passes for 70 yards. Bryant scored a 50-yard touchdown against the Giants in Week 14 at home for his only catch of the game. Bryant is a must-start in all Fantasy leagues now that he's healthy.
News: Dallas wide receiver Dez Bryant was a full participant in practice Sunday in preparation for Wednesday's Week 1 opener at New York. Bryant is probable to play in the game against the Giants to open the season and is expected to start for the Cowboys after missing preseason finale. Bryant has patellar tendinitis in his right knee, but it was never seriously expected to cost him time in games.
Analysis: Bryant believes he's a changed man heading into Week 1 of the season against the Giants. All Fantasy owners will care about is him catching Tony Romo's passes. Bryant has become Romo's top weapon with Miles Austin the second option in the passing game. The last time Bryant played in New York was Week 17 of last season when he caught six passes for 70 yards. Bryant scored a 50-yard touchdown against the Giants Week 14 at home for his only catch of the game. Bryant is a must-start in all Fantasy leagues for the first game of the season.
News: Dallas wide receiver Dez Bryant was a full participant in practice Sunday in preparation for Wednesday's Week 1 opener at New York. Bryant is probable to play in the game against the Giants to open the season and is expected to start for the Cowboys after missing preseason finale. Bryant has patellar tendinitis in his right knee, but it was never seriously expected to cost him time in games.
Analysis: Bryant believes he's a changed man heading into Week 1 of the season against the Giants. All Fantasy owners will care about is him catching Tony Romo's passes. Bryant has become Romo's top weapon with Miles Austin the second option in the passing game. The last time Bryant played in New York was Week 17 of last season when he caught six passes for 70 yards. Bryant scored a 50-yard touchdown against the Giants Week 14 at home for his only catch of the game. Bryant is a must-start in all Fantasy leagues for the first game of the season.
News: Dallas wide receiver Dez Bryant, who did not play in the preseason finale Wednesday against Miami as the Cowboys rested all the team's starters, initiated the strict set of rules the Cowboys have placed upon him for the season, reports the San Antonio Express-News. Bryant apparently asked for help to make some changes in his life. The Cowboys believe the set of rules imposed on Bryant will make a difference.
Analysis: Bryant had been diagnosed with patellar tendinitis in his right knee but expects to play Week 1 against the Giants on Wednesday. The Cowboys rested all the team's starters on Wednesday against the Dolphins and that included Bryant. He is entering his third season in the NFL and looks to cement his status as arguably the Cowboys' top receiving option. Consider him a high-end Fantasy option with a pick beginning in Round 5. Bryant caught six passes for 70 yards Week 17 last year against the Giants and scored a 50-yard TD at home against the G-men Week 14 of last year. He is a viable start in all Fantasy formats for Week 1.
News: Dallas wide receiver Dez Bryant is not expected to play in Saturday's preseason game against St. Louis after suffering a knee injury during practice Monday, according to ESPN. Bryant is considered day to day with patellar tendinitis in his right knee after an MRI revealed no major injury. He emphatically stated Tuesday he would be available for the Cowboys' season opener against the Giants. "You know I'm going to play in New York, that's without a doubt," he said.
Analysis: While Bryant said he was looking forward to the Sept. 5 showdown against the Giants, Dallas coach Jason Garrett didn't share the same unabridged optimism. "Hard for us to project that much into the future," he said regarding Bryant's status. "But we were pleased with what the result of the MRI was and it’s a day-to-day rehab for him." Bryant did not participate in Tuesday's practice and did some light running instead. He is entering his third season in the NFL and looks to cement his status as arguably the Cowboys' top receiving option. Consider him a high-end Fantasy option with a pick beginning in Round 5.
News: Cowboys owner Jerry Jones told 105.3 The Fan in Dallas on Tuesday that Dez Bryant is expected to be fine and has no structural damage to his knee in practice Monday. Bryant has been diagnosed with patellar tendinitis and needs rest. Jones does not expect him to play in the Cowboys' third preseason game against the Rams on Saturday and added he wasn't surprised with Bryant's injury given the "Super Bowl" effort he's displayed since camp opened.
Analysis: Jones seemed enthused with the work Bryant had put in to this point, a change of heart after criticizing his conditioning earlier this offseason. Bryant's upside is obvious but minor aches and pains this summer will play in the minds of Fantasy owners when the time comes to draft Dez. Furthermore, we've been talking about Bryant's potential for two years already and haven't seen it on a consistent basis. Perhaps his third year is the charm. We'd risk calling Bryant a No. 2 Fantasy receiver and certainly the Cowboys' best receiving option for owners to look to in drafts. He's worth a pick between Rounds 5 and 6.
News: Dallas wide receiver Dez Bryant left the team's practice Monday to have his knee examined, according to the team's official website. Bryant, who hauled in two passes for 15 yards in last Saturday's preseason loss at San Diego, has been diagnosed with patellar tendinitis in his right knee, reports ESPN.com. The injury is more commonly known as jumper's knee and rest has been prescribed. Bryant walked off the field under his own power and did not show a noticeable limp. He told reporters he was fine after leaving the trainer's room, but the Cowboys decided to send him for an MRI anyway.
Analysis: Just what Bryant needs -- another issue to deal with. After overcoming a hamstring injury that limited him practice last week, Bryant provided another scare for Dallas -- and Fantasy owners -- and will have to rest that knee in hopes it will be ready to go when the lights come on. Bryant, who was essentially placed on probation by Cowboys owner Jerry Jones for his off-field conduct, didn't display any health problems against the Chargers and made an impressive leaping one-handed catch in the back of the end zone that went for an incompletion after he landed out of bounds. Fantasy owners should monitor his health status, but he remains a solid No. 2 Fantasy wide receiver worthy of a selection beginning in Round 5.
News: Dallas wide receiver Dez Bryant worked out prior to Monday's preseason opener at Oakland and was cleared to play in the game despite a hamstring injury. Bryant started the game and played the first three series with the first-team offense. The Cowboys were without Miles Austin for the game against the Raiders and struggled to get any kind of offense going behind Tony Romo. Bryant looked good getting open on his only target and came down with a 24-yard reception. Bryant entered the game as a game-time decision and was limited so as to not risk further injury.
Analysis: The mere fact that Bryant played in Monday's game is a great sign he's OK heading into the regular season, at least for now. Bryant has had a tumultuous offseason, as he was arrested before training camp began and has had to deal with questions about his past yet again. Cowboys' owner Jerry Jones recently came out and warned Bryant about being on his best behavior, as the team will move on from him if he cannot stay out of trouble. He is not exepcted to be suspended, so the only thing that could keep Bryant off the field right now is if he struggles with injury. We will keep an eye on his status moving forward, as Bryant should be a solid No. 2 Fantasy WR, worth targeting in Round 5 if healthy.
News: Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant injured his hamstring during Saturday's practice, leaving his status for the team's first preseason game Monday against the Raiders in question. BRyant took part in walk-throughs Sunday and did some light running, but remains a game-time decision.
Analysis: Bryant has had a tumultuous offseason, as he was arrested before training camp began and has had to deal with questions about his past yet again. Cowboys' owner Jerry Jones recently came out and warned Bryant about being on his best behavior, as the team will move on from him if he cannot stay out of trouble. He is not exepcted to be suspended, so the only thing that could keep Bryant off the field right now is if he struggles with injury. We will keep an eye on his status moving forward, as Bryant should be a solid No. 2 Fantasy WR, worth targeting in Round 5 if healthy.
News: Cowboys owner Jerry Jones told The Dan Patrick Show Wednesday that if receiver Dez Bryant can't work through his off-field issues, the team "will move on." Bryant was arrested before camp for striking his mother; no charges seem to be forthcoming. "He's just got to come on, step up and accept responsibility, and I think he can get there," Jones said. "I'm demanding that he work through it. He must do it or we can't count on him."
Analysis: Those are tough words we'll have to remember if Bryant gets in trouble with the law again. No suspension is expected from the league, but Bryant's on thin ice with Jones and the NFL based on his checkered past. He should have the chance to play 16 games, which is what's important to us. If you buy into Bryant being a breakout candidate in his third year, you'll find yourself reaching for him between Round 4 and Round 5 in drafts as a No. 2 WR. If you're not a believer, you'll be lucky to find him available in Round 6. We'll keep you posted on developments surrounding Bryant going forward.
News: After originally saying he was upset with receiver Dez Bryant, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones told the media Tuesday he had the chance to meet with his third-year talent and seems satisfied with their "extensive" talk. Bryant was arrested before camp for striking his mother; no charges seem to be forthcoming. Jones said the two had a "good talk" and turned the topic to football and how Dez has looked so far in camp. "He's been very impressive," Jones said. "He's working hard. He has big blisters on both feet. He's practicing lights out. He's practicing really well."
Analysis: No suspension is expected from the league, but Bryant's on thin ice with the NFL based on his checkered past. He should have the chance to play 16 games, which is what's important to us. If you buy into Bryant being a breakout candidate in his third year, you'll find yourself reaching for him between Round 4 and Round 5 in drafts as a No. 2 WR. If you're not a believer, you'll be lucky to find him available in Round 6. We'll keep you posted on developments surrounding Bryant going forward.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports that Cowboys receiver Dez Bryant is likely to avoid a suspension despite his arrest July 17 for domestic violence. Bryant's mother has told authorities that she doesn't want to pursue a case against her son after an argument allegedly turned violent.
Analysis: The Cowboys have said they will back Bryant, and he could be in the clear as far as a suspension goes. Continue to monitor what develops, but Bryant should be viewed as a No. 2 Fantasy receiver coming into the season. He is worth drafting in Round 4 in the majority of leagues.
News: Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant's mother has told authorities that she doesn't want to pursue a case against her son after an argument allegedly turned violent. A Dallas County district attorney's spokeswoman says the case DeSoto police filed against Bryant includes an affidavit of non-prosecution from the complainant. The affidavit means the complainant doesn't want to proceed. Police in the southern Dallas suburb arrested Bryant last week after a July 14 incident in which he allegedly hit his mother, Angela Bryant, across the face with a ball cap. A police affidavit says Bryant grabbed his mother by her T-shirt, causing her bra to tear. Prosecutors haven't said whether they will pursue the case. Dez Bryant is accused of misdemeanor family violence.
Analysis: This might be good news for Bryant -- if there's no charges to fight, there's no case and potentially no violation of the NFL's personal conduct policy. To be sure, Bryant's on thin ice with the league based on his checkered past, but this development should mean that he'll have a chance to play 16 games. If you buy into Bryant being a breakout candidate in his third year, you'll find yourself reaching for him between Round 4 and Round 5 in drafts as a No. 2 WR. If you're not a believer, you'll be lucky to find him available in Round 6. We'll keep you posted on developments surrounding Bryant going forward, and hopefully he can avoid a suspension.
News: Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant is free on bond after he was arrested on a misdemeanor family violence charge. Bryant turned himself in Monday afternoon to police in the southern Dallas suburb of DeSoto. His attorney, Royce West, says Bryant posted $1,500 bond after learning a warrant had been issued for his arrest. ESPN reports Bryant was in a verbal altercation with his half brother when he shoved his mother on Saturday. Bryant's mother did not go to the hospital for her injuries. Under state law, family violence is an attack or "a threat" of imminent harm against a member of a family or household. It's a misdemeanor punishable by up to a year in jail and a $4,000 fine. The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports that Bryant's arrest has drawn the attention of the league commissioner and chief disciplinarian Roger Goodell. "We are aware of it and it will be reviewed as appropriate," spokesman Michael Signora said. He also pointed out that Bryant can disciplined without a conviction per the NFL's Personal Conduct Policy.
Analysis: Bryant has been in the headlines for some off-field incidents but this is his first arrest. He has been involved in night club altercations, mall bans, jewelry and sport ticket debts and benefit scandals while in college, but he's never been arrested. Bryant's on-field potential is off the charts, especially after he said recently he feels quicker and stronger than he ever has before. If you buy into Bryant being a breakout candidate in his third year, you'll find yourself reaching for him between Round 4 and Round 5 in drafts as a No. 2 WR. If you're not a believer, you'll be lucky to find him available in Round 6. We'll keep you posted on developments surrounding Bryant going forward, and hopefully he can avoid a suspension.
News: Cowboys receiver Dez Bryant told the Dallas Morning News that the offseason program has affected him "big time," and a good year is expected as a result. Bryant was in OK shape last year but a thigh bruise limited him for the entire season; he was especially poor in the second half of games. He feels much better now, explaining he can run 40-yard dashes as fast as 4.4 seconds. “I feel much quicker. I’m coming out of my breaks faster. I got in shape real quick," he said. "I know all the other guys have been going through the same workouts, so I'm pretty sure they feel the same exact way. I feel like the team is just really ready to go. I'm not going to predict anything, but I know for a fact that we’re ready to go."
Analysis: With 63 receptions for 928 yards and nine touchdowns in 2011, Bryant improved in every major statistical category from his rookie season despite failing to record a 100-yard game even once. Bryant has the chance for a breakout year in his third season, and we're excited about his progress. If you buy into Bryant being a breakout candidate in his third year, you'll find yourself reaching for him between Round 4 and Round 5 in drafts as a No. 2 WR. If you're not a believer, you'll be lucky to find him available in Round 6.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports that Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo has been impressed with receiver Dez Bryant this offseason. Romo was recently asked for his personal assessment of the 23-year-old wide receiver and responded by saying he can see that Bryant is consistently getting better. “He just keeps improving and improving. He’s a kid that I enjoy playing with because he wants to get better,” Romo said during a local TV interview. “He’s always asking, ‘Hey Tony, what can I do to be better?’ I love playing with guys like him, Miles (Austin) and these guys. They want to be better themselves and they’re trying to do anything they can to get better. ... The guys that really want to be great and have that ability to be great, you can’t have enough of those guys. And we got a few of them. Dez is just a great kid like that. He’s getting better and better every week.”
Analysis: Bryant said last month that injuries limited him for the majority of the 2011 campaign, a sophomore season that saw him finish with 63 receptions for 928 yards and nine touchdowns. While he improved in every major statistical category from his rookie season, Bryant’s production faded late in several outings and he failed to record a 100-yard game. Bryant has the chance for a breakout year in his third season, and we're excited about his progress. We consider Bryant a solid No. 2 Fantasy receiver, and he's worth drafting as early as Round 4 in most formats.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports that Cowboys receiver Dez Bryant is looking forward to his third year in the NFL. While staying out of the headlines away from the field has been a positive sign for the Cowboys, Bryant's improved conditioning could be equally important. The Cowboys are hoping that Bryant can make more of an impact late in games. If one of the most physically-gifted athletes in the game can improve his fourth-quarter contributions, he'll be headed to his first Pro Bowl. "His conditioning to me is where his focus is and where it should be," owner Jerry Jones said. "If we can have him better conditioned, then we've got a chance to see him more focused in the latter part of games. ... I know one thing. He certainly is different as far as his maturity and as far as his understanding of what it takes to play in the National Football League than when he got here."
Analysis: Bryant has the chance for a breakout year in his third season, and we're excited about his progress. We consider Bryant a solid No. 2 Fantasy receiver, and he's worth drafting as early as Round 4 in most formats.
News: After Cowboys owner Jerry Jones called out receiver Dez Bryant for not being in top shape last season, the receiver pretty much agreed. "I don't want to say that I was in horrible shape but I feel like I wasn't at my best," Bryant told the Dallas Morning News. "I feel like now I'm still not at my best, but it's way more better than last year and I feel like I'm still progressing and just doing my best. ... I feel like I have learned a lot from all aspects, on the field, off the field. I see a lot of things more clear now. I'm more confident in everything that I do on the field and off the field. I try to make the best choices possible and I feel like I'm doing a great job of it."
Analysis: Bryant has been around for all of the Cowboys offseason workouts and has received praise from his coaches for working hard. Though he was woefully inconsistent, Bryant's expectations remain high for a receiver who has averaged four catches, 55.1 yards and .55 touchdowns per game through 27 games. If you buy into Bryant being a breakout candidate in his third year, you'll find yourself reaching for him between Round 4 and Round 5 in drafts as a No. 2 WR. If you're not a believer, you'll be lucky to find him available in Round 6.
News: Cowboys owner Jerry Jones told the Dallas Morning News that injuries weren't the sole reason for Dez Bryant's uneven play last season. Jones believes that injuries, like the bruised thigh suffered in Week 1, did play a part, but wasn't the only thing. "I don't know that [injuries] impacted some of the things that he needs to work on, and we need to work on as a coaching staff to get him the ball and get him into plays," Jones said. "When he would lose concentration in the last part of the game, I don't know if that was because of conditioning. I suspect it could've been. That's not be critical, but I suspect that, rather the injury had anything to do with that or not, those are the things that we're working on so he can be more impactful in the latter part of the game, and we can do the kinds of things we need to do to get him the ball."
Analysis: Though he was woefully inconsistent, Bryant's expectations remain high for a receiver who has averaged four catches, 55.1 yards and .55 touchdowns per game through 27 games. If you buy into Bryant being a breakout candidate in his third year, you'll find yourself reaching for him between Round 4 and Round 5 in drafts as a No. 2 WR. If you're not a believer, you'll be lucky to find him available in Round 6.
News:Dez Bryant fielded punts Wednesday during a Cowboys practice. Team owner Jerry Jones says he's "all for" Bryant returning punts again, even after getting hurt and missing a game on a punt return last season. "I have no issue with us making business decisions relative to him returning punts," Jones said according to the Dallas Morning News. "What I do want him to do is to get enough repetitions so he can have a sense of fielding them and when to field them and when not to field them and make those kinds of judgments, but I like him back there to use him when we've got a long field or a chance for a return."
Analysis: If you're in a league where special-teams play counts, you want Bryant to retain that job. If you're in a league where special-teams play is meaningless, you don't want Bryant anywhere near there. Frankly, the Cowboys shouldn't plan on Bryant fielding punts given the lack of depth at receiver. We'd prefer to see Dez focused on offense, especially coming off of a 63-catch, 928-yard and nine-touchdown campaign. Though he was woefully inconsistent, Bryant's expectations remain high for a receiver who has averaged four catches, 55.1 yards and .55 touchdowns per game through 27 games. If you buy into Bryant being a breakout candidate in his third year, you'll find yourself reaching for him between Round 4 and Round 5 in drafts as a No. 2 WR. If you're not a believer, you'll be lucky to find him available in Round 6.
News: The Cowboys wanted wide receiver Dez Bryant to have a more structured offseason in hopes of having him better prepared for the start of the year, and so far it's working. Bryant has stayed at the facility, working out and being involved in the teaching sessions according to assistant head coach Jimmy Robinson. That's a lot better than last year, when all players were locked out. and his first year when he was a rookie. "He's out there working really, really hard to get better," Robinson said according to ESPN. "It's got to make a difference. ... He's getting better every day, but again that's got to carry over to the next phase, the OTAs and training camp and then the regular season, game day."
Analysis: Bryant's season totals from 2011 look good (63 catches for 928 yards and nine touchdowns), but how he got those totals made Fantasy owners go nuts. He didn't have any 100-yard games (he had only two games with over 80 yards), and not until Week 10 did he begin posting quality performances in consecutive weeks including a three-game touchdown streak from Week 13 to 15. But there's so much to love about this guy -- his big frame, his quality speed and his role in an aggressive offense. Entering his third season, expectations remain high for a receiver who has averaged four catches, 55.1 yards and .55 touchdowns per game through 27 games. If you buy into Bryant being a breakout candidate this year, you'll find yourself reaching for him between Round 4 and Round 5 in drafts as a No. 2 WR. If you're not a believer, you'll be lucky to find him available in Round 6.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant led his team in receiving in Week 17 against the Giants. He caught six passes for 70 yards in the 31-14 loss. He had a long reception of 17 and averaged 11.7 yards per grab. Bryant was targeted eight times by QB Tony Romo in the defeat.
Analysis: Bryant had a career campaign for the Cowboys this season as he posted personal bests in receptions (63), receiving yards (928) and touchdowns (nine). He is quickly developing into the most dangerous wideout in Dallas and should only get better at age 23. Heading into 2012, target Bryant as a solid Fantasy WR in all formats on Draft Day.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant enters Week 17 against the Giants needing just one more score to reach double digits for the first time in his career. New York ranks 27th in the league in pass defense, giving up over 255 yards per contest, and has allowed an average of 24.1 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts. When he faced the division foe earlier in the year, Bryant posted a 50-yard touchdown grab.
Analysis: Bryant has posted at least 40 yards receiving in each of the last four games and has three touchdowns over that span. He also has scored five times in his last three games against the Giants, and should be in for another productive performance on Sunday. Consider Bryant a No. 2 Fantasy WR for Week 17.
News: Dallas played the majority of the game on Saturday with Tony Romo, but WR Dez Bryant still posted decent numbers. He caught six passes for 62 yards. Bryant was targeted a team-high eight times and was one of backup QB Stephen McGee's favorite targets. Dallas lost to Philly, 20-7.
Analysis: Bryant and the Cowboys have a big matchup next weekend against the Giants as the winner goes to the playoffs. New York is giving up 255.4 passing yards per game this year and have allowed 26 receiving touchdowns in 15 games. In the last meeting against New York, Bryant had one catch, but he made it count. He went 50 yards for a touchdown in that contest. Fantasy owners should consider Bryant a solid WR choice for Week 17.
News: Dallas WR Dez Bryant is looking for his 10th touchdown of the season this weekend. In Week 16 the Cowboys host the Eagles, a team that Bryant had just three catches for 28 yards against back in Week 7. Philadelphia has given up 25 receiving touchdowns this season, despite getting a revamped secondary in the offseason.
Analysis: The Eagles are allowing 213.8 passing yards per contest as well as allowing 21 Fantasy points to opposing team's receivers this season. Bryant has been playing well for the Cowboys and has two more games to reach double-digit touchdowns for the first time in his young career. Fantasy owners should view him as a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 WR option on Saturday.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant was able to haul in his ninth touchdown reception of the season in Week 15 against the Buccaneers. Bryant was on the receiving end of an 8-yard touchdown strike from Tony Romo in the first quarter, which capped off a 10-play, 69-yard scoring drive. He finished with four receptions for 40 yards in the 31-15 victory, averaging 10.6 yards per reception. Bryant was targeted four times in the win.
Analysis: Bryant has been on a scoring spree of late, and continued that trend on Saturday night. He has now hauled in a touchdown reception in three straight games and continues to build on what has been a breakout year for the 23-year-old. Bryant will now look to keep things rolling when the Eagles head to town in Week 16. While he was held to just three catches for 28 yards in his first meeting against Philadelphia this season, Bryant has been way too productive to even think about taking out of most starting lineups. Consider him a a high-end No. 1/low-end No. 2 Fantasy option next Saturday.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant will be looking to extend his touchdown streak in Week 15 against the Buccaneers. Bryant has found the end zone in each of his last two contests, including in last week's 37-34 loss to the Giants. Tampa Bay enters Saturday's contest ranked 27th in pass defense, allowing 249 yards per game. The Buccaneers have surrendered 22 touchdowns through the air and are allowing an average of 20.4 Fantasy points to opposing WRs on the season.
Analysis: Bryant has actually scored found in the end zone in four of his last five contests and now looks to have a very favorable matchup on Saturday. Tampa Bay has really struggled to defend the pass and have surrendered 12 touchdowns to opposing wideouts on the year. However, the Cowboys have a ton of weapons on the offensive side of the ball -- especially with the return of Miles Austin -- so consider Bryant a high-end No. 1/low-end No. 2 Fantasy option in Week 15.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant was expected to lose some targets with the return of WR Miles Austin from a hamstring injury in Week 14, but it would not have been a surprise to see him continue to produce at the high level he has maintained for most of the year. Bryant had just one catch in the Cowboys 37-34 loss to the Giants, but at least it went for fifty yards and a touchdown in the fourth quarter. He was only targeted two other times in the game.
Analysis: Bryant has had at least three receptions in every game this season, so the low catch total was certainly a disappointment, however he did score for the second week in a row and the fourth time in five games. With Austin back and Laurent Robinson producing, there are a lot of excellent targets for QB Tony Romo to throw it to, which could cause all of their numbers to take a hit. The Cowboys take on the Buccaneers in Week 15, and it presents a good matchup as they allow opposing WRs to score the 12th most Fantasy points against them. However, because of the multitude of options, it’s hard to recommend any of them as anything more than No. 2 Fantasy WRs, including Bryant.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant had had an up-and-down second NFL season, but he has already topped his production as a rookie, with one more touchdown and reception so far this season, heading into Week 14 against New York and the home stretch of the season. Bryant hasn’t exactly been a model of consistency this year, but he does only have three games on the year with fewer than 60 receiving yards. In his two-game career against the Giants, Bryant has seven catches for 158 yards and three touchdowns, including a two touchdown performance in Week 6 of his rookie season in his first game against them.
Analysis: The Giants have been absolutely torched through the air in recent weeks, giving up three straight 190-yard games to opposing Fantasy WR units, with seven touchdowns over that time span. This would be a good opportunity for Bryant to find that consistency, as he is trying to put together consecutive 10-point Fantasy games for just the second time all season. He may have to deal with the return of WR Miles Austin from a hamstring injury, as he participated in practice Wednesday. Even if Austin plays, WR Laurent Robinson is more likely than Bryant to see a dip in playing time as he is also dealing with an injury. Bryant should be considered a low-end No. 1 Fantasy receiver for Week 14 against the Giants.
News: Dallas WR Dez Bryant made plenty of nice plays in Week 13 in Arizona -- on offense and special teams -- but couldn't get his team the win. Bryant caught a 5-yard touchdown pass from Tony Romo in the second quarter, which would be the Cowboys only touchdown in the game. Romo looked Bryant's way 14 times in Week 13. He caught a team-high eight passes for 86 yards. The Cowboys would end up losing to the Cardinals, 19-13, in overtime.
Analysis: Bryant was definitely the go-to guy on Sunday as he was targeted more than twice as much as an other receiver. That may change however, as Miles Austin could return next weekend from his hamstring injury. The Cowboys host the Giants in Week 14, a team that gave up a lot of yards to the Packers in Week 13. Fantasy owners should continue to track the health and progress of Austin during the week. His status will definitely affect Bryan'ts Fantasy stock. Consider Bryant a solid No. 2 WR option for next Sunday.
News: Dallas WR Dez Bryant saw his two-game touchdown streak end on Thanksgiving. He'll look to start a new streak in Week 13 against Arizona. The Cardinals have given up 12 receiving touchdowns in 11 games. Opposing receivers are averaging 22.18 Fantasy points per contest against the Cards this season. Bryant has never faced the Cardinals.
Analysis: Dallas owner Jerry Jones has said Miles Austin will play this weekend even though he hasn't practiced yet. Bryant should still get his looks if Austin remains sidelined as Laurent Robinson has jumped up the depth chart of the Cowboys. Fantasy owners should track Austin's progress heading into Week 13. Assuming he remains sidelined, Bryant should be viewed as a low-end No. 2 WR option against Arizona.
News: Dallas WR Dez Bryant did not have a big game Thursday against Miami on Thanksgiving Day in Week 12. Bryant was held to just three catches for 35 yards on only four targets. His two-game touchdown streak came to an end.
Analysis: Bryant should be able to rebound in Week 13 at Arizona, but he might lose some targets to Miles Austin (hamstring), who is expected to return. The Cowboys will likely use Bryant, Austin and Laurent Robinson in plenty of three-receiver sets since all three need to be on the field, but there could also be a rotation going now that Robinson has emerged as a star. Look for Bryant to still play at a high level, and he remains a must-start Fantasy option in all leagues against the Cardinals.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant has caught a touchdown in each of his last two games and will be looking to extend that streak in Week 12 against the Dolphins. Miami ranks 25th in the league in pass defense, giving up over 251 yards per contest, and have allowed an average of 22 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts.
Analysis: After laying a dud in Week 8, Bryant has been productive the last three weeks. He has six touchdown grabs on the year and will set a new career mark with the next one. He has benefited from QB Tony Romo playing better of late and should be able to find some open space in the Dolphins' secondary on Thursday. While Miami has held opposing receivers out of the end zone in three straight games, consider Bryant as a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy WR for Week 12.
News: Dallas QB Tony Romo found wide receiver Dez Bryant for a 22-yard touchdown pass in the first quarter of Sunday's Week 11 overtime win in Washington. Bryant put the Cowboys on the board first in the game as the first quarter ended 7-0 Dallas. Bryant finished second on the team in receiving in the game with 68 yards on three catches and the TD. He was targeted eight times by Romo on the afternoon.
Analysis: Bryant once again found the end zone in the Week 11 game against the Redskins. Bryant now has six touchdowns on the season and has recorded TDs in back-to-back contests for the Cowboys with Miles Austin out. Austin is likely to miss yet another game in Week 12 against Miami, so Bryant will continue being the top option in the passing game for Romo. The Dolphins are playing much better football of late, especially defensively, but Bryant should still do his thing against Miami Week 12. Bryant can be considered a No. 1 Fantasy WR for Week 12.
News: Dallas WR Dez Bryant will once again start opposite Laurent Robinson in Week 11 at Washington as Miles Austin is expected to miss another game. Bryant, who caught six passes for 74 yards and a touchdown last week against Buffalo, should be the most targeted WR on the roster for Tony Romo against Washington. While the Redskins have been tough against wide receivers this season, they have also given up some big performances and Bryant could be in line for one on Sunday.
Analysis: Bryant was dealing with a thigh injury the first time the Cowboys met the Redskins in Dallas Week 3. Still, Bryant caught four passes for 63 yards and had the biggest grab of the game in that contest. One week later, Bryant caught two touchdown passes against the Lions. Bryant has five TDs on the season and is a big physical receiver that Washington should have plenty trouble covering. Fantasy owners should easily consider him a solid No. 1 or high-end No. 2 Fantasy WR for Week 11.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant netted his 13th career touchdown, and ninth at home, during a 44-7 win against the Bills in Week 10. Bryant kicked off the scoring when he outleaped a Buffalo defender for a 34-yard touchdown on the team's opening drive. Bryant finished with a team-high 74 receiving yards on six catches. He now has four touchdowns in his last six games -- all coming at home.
Analysis: We expected Bryant to play big Week 10 with Miles Austin out of the lineup and he did just that. He has the potential to put up some nice numbers with Austin expected to miss multiple weeks with a hamstring injury. The Cowboys do hit the road in Week 11 to face Washington, but you can consider Bryant a viable Fantasy start in all formats.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant is all about home cooking apparently. Heading into Week 10 vs. Buffalo, Bryant has scored eight of his 12 career touchdowns (including punt returns) at home, which include three of his four touchdowns this season. Bryant has a touchdown in two games against the AFC East this season, which includes seven catches for 149 yards. The Bills are yielding 22 Fantasy points per week to WRs, which is tied for ninth-highest in the NFL. WRs have also totaled six touchdowns against Buffalo.
Analysis: Bryant has yet to go over 100 yards in 2011 and has been inconsistent for what Fantasy owners have expected from the second-year receiver. But Week 10 provides a perfect opportunity for Bryant to perhaps have one of his best games of the season. The Cowboys are expected to be down WR Miles Austin (hamstring), so Bryant will be one of the team's top targets alongside Jason Witten and Laurent Robinson. For that consider him a No. 2 Fantasy WR.
News: After producing a meager 28 receiving yards in Week 8 against the Eagles, Cowboys WR Dez Bryant bounced back to amass a team-leading 76 yards in Week 9. Bryant also led the Cowboys with nine targets in the 23-13 win over the Seahawks, but he was only able to reel in four of those passes in for catches. Bryant had a chance to score on a 23-yard pass play from QB Tony Romo, but he fumbled the ball on the goal line and the Seahawks recovered. It was the second straight game in which Bryant did not score.
Analysis: Bryant continued his pattern of up-and-down production, but just because he had an "up" week against the Seahawks doesn't mean that a downturn is inevitable against the Bills in Week 10. Buffalo has been very hospitable to opposing receivers, and if WR Miles Austin remains out with his hamstring injury, that could mean even more targets for Bryant. Continue to use Bryant as a low-end No.1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy WR going into next week.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant had his worst game of the season in Week 8, as the Eagles held him to three catches for 28 yards with no touchdowns. While the Eagles have been the seventh-best team in the league in limiting receiving yardage for wide receivers on a per-game basis, the Cowboys' Week 9 foe, the Seahawks, have been much more generous. Seattle ranks 16th in fewest receiving yards per game allowed to opposing wide receivers, and Mike Wallace, Julio Jones and Victor Cruz have all posted games with 100-plus receiving yards against them so far this season.
Analysis: Bryant's production has been spotty at times this season, but he gets a relatively favorable matchup in Week 9. He should rebound from his poor showing last week, which makes him a a low-end No.1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy WR for this weekend's tilt.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant could not find much room in the secondary in Week 8 against the Eagles. He was held without a catch through the first three quarters and finished with just three grabs for a season-low 28 yards in the 34-7 loss. Bryant, who was targeted five times, had a long reception of 11 and averaged 9.3 yards per catch.
Analysis: The Eagles brought a ton of pressure on QB Tony Romo on Sunday and their vaunted secondary did a solid job of limiting Bryant, among others. While he was able to come alive with a couple of grabs late, Fantasy owners have to be disappointed with his slow performance. He should be able to bounce back in Week 9 against the Seahawks so continue to view Bryant as no worse than a No. 2 Fantasy WR.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant gave everyone a scare Thursday when he appeared to hurt his right foot during punt drills at practice. Bryant pulled off his shoe and evaluated his foot before declaring himself OK to trainers. He finished practiced and said the injury isn't an issue. Bryant wasn't on the injury report. "I'm fine," Bryant said. "I did it to myself." Dallas plays at NFC East rival Philadelphia in Week 8.
Analysis: Whenever Bryant comes up lame it is always a concern since he has been plagued by injuries in his young NFL career. He has even been on the injury report many weeks this season. Luckily, this is a non-issue and Fantasy owners shouldn't be worried about his Week 8 status. Philadelphia ranks 10th in the league against the pass, giving up over 217 yards per contest, and have allowed an average 17 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts. Consider Bryant a low-end No.1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy WR for Week 8.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant enters Week 8 with solid performances in each of his last three games and will look to keep things going against the Eagles. Philadelphia ranks 10th in the league against the pass, giving up over 217 yards per contest, and have allowed an average 17 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts. Bryant did not play when the division foes met a year ago.
Analysis: Bryant continues to be a solid option in the passing game as he is averaging 17.8 yards per catch with four touchdowns through five games. Even though the Eagles have some serious talent in their secondary, not many teams have been able to slow down the 22-year-old and Dallas' new-and-improved running game should open up some plays downfield. Consider Bryant a low-end No.1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy WR for Week 8.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant appears to have taken over punt return responsibilities on a full-time basis again, according to the Dallas Morning News. Bryant was the deep man for all five of St. Louis' punts during the teams' meeting in Week 7 on Sunday. He netted seven yards on just one possible return -- his first since suffering a deep thigh bruise on a return in the Cowboys' season opener against the Jets.
Analysis: Dallas removed Bryant from the role until he was 100 percent healthy as the team didn't want to risk further injury to the blossoming wideout. Bryant has tallied at least 60 yards in four of his five games this season and is ranked eighth in the NFL with four receiving touchdowns. Fantasy owners should continue to consider the 22-year-old a solid WR option heading into Week 8 against Philadelphia.
News: Dallas WR Dez Bryant has struggled to do much of anything in the second half of games this season. He had one catch for 34 yards in the first half against the Rams in Week 7, but caught all four passes thrown his way in the second half for 56 yards and a touchdown. The Cowboys went on to win the game, 34-7.
Analysis: It's good to see Bryant perform well in the second half for once. Coach Jason Garrett said that teams were playing Bryant differently after the half, so perhaps they finally figured it out. Heading into Week 8, Dallas travels to Philly. The Eagles have allowed 11 passing touchdowns in six games this year and are allowing an average of 217.3 passing per contest. Fantasy owners should continue to keep him active heading into next Sunday.
News: Dallas WR Dez Bryant has had explosive moments this year, but mostly in the first half. Coach Jason Garrett said teams are playing Bryant differently in the second half of games, but he can't put his finger on just what. “I don’t know that they’re doing much to be honest with you," Garrett said. "I think one of the best things we did and really it goes to Tony (Romo) was that he found different guys throughout the game.” The Rams are allowing 240 passing yards per game this year and 29 Fantasy points per contest to opposing team's receivers.
Analysis: If Bryant can put together a complete game, Fantasy owners will be thrilled. The Rams have allowed 11 receiving touchdowns this year. Bryant has found the end zone three times and with the running game likely missing Felix Jones, the Cowboys may ask Tony Romo to air it out a bit more. Fantasy owners should view Bryant as a No. 1 WR option for Week 7.
News: Dallas WR Dez Bryant had just one catch in the second half of Sunday's contest against New England. He was targeted eight times on the day, catching four passes for a team-high 78 yards. He has caught three passes in the second half of games all season. The Cowboys would end up losing the game, 20-16.
Analysis: Bryant had been dealing with a bruised thigh, but he seemed fine on Sunday. The Dallas coaching staff has to work some plays for him when they are in the red zone, something they failed to do in Week 6. The Cowboys host the Rams next week, a team that has allowed 11 receiving touchdowns in five games this year. As long as his injury doesn't flare up Bryant should be viewed as a viable WR option for Week 7.
News: Dallas WR Dez Bryant was active for Week 6 against New England. He was recovering from a bruised thigh, but had an extra week to get healthy. The Patriots are allowing 29.4 Fantasy points per game to opposing team's receivers this season, which is highest in the NFL.
Analysis: Bryant and Miles Austin could have a field day against the Patriots as they are awful against the pass this season. Consider Bryant a viable low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy WR for Week 6.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant said Friday that he is feeling good. Asked if he is 100 percent recovered from a bruised thigh, Bryant said, "You can say that.'' Bryant and the Cowboys travel to New England in Week 6. Bryant has just 10 catches on the year, but that has translated into 171 yards and three scores. He's coming off a two-touchdown performance in Week 4 before his team's bye in Week 5. The Patriots are allowing 29.4 Fantasy points per game to opposing team's receivers this season, which is highest in the NFL.
Analysis: Getting back to 100 percent is only going to help Bryant get back to the level everyone knows he can play at. Also, having Miles Austin return to the lineup in Week 6 could also mean more one-on-one matchups for Bryant. Consider Bryant a viable low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy WR for Week 6.
News: Dallas WR Dez Bryant was able to practice in full on Wednesday, so the extra time off seemed to do him good. Coming off a bye the Cowboys are gearing up for a showdown with the Patriots in Week 6. Bryant has just 10 catches on the year, but that has translated into 171 yards and three scores. He's coming off a two-touchdown performance in Week 4 as well. The Patriots are allowing 29.40 Fantasy points per game to opposing team's receivers this season.
Analysis: Bryant and Miles Austin should be able to take the field in Week 6, which makes it so the Patriots can't focus on shutting just one of them down. If he is to bust out for a big game this year it should be this week against the worst pass defense in the NFL. Fantasy owners should keep tabs on his health heading into Sunday, but he should be good-to-go. If that's the case he should be considered a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 WR option for Week 6.
News: ESPN reports that Cowboys WR Dez Bryant said on Wednesday that he is about "85 percent." He said he feels he will be 100 percent by the time his team next plays in Week 6 against New England following their Week 5 bye. Cowboys owner and general manager Jerry Jones said during his weekly Tuesday radio appearance in Dallas that he has been surprised by WR Dez Bryant's ability to play through his thigh injury. "It's absolutely been a small miracle that he's been able to come out and play in the last three ballgames," Jones said.
Analysis: Bryant has not been able to practice and has not been able to work with the first-team offense throughout the week. His conditioning has come into question as a result. So while he continues to play, it does appear that both the Cowboys and Fantasy owners have been getting a version of Bryant that is less than 100 percent (perhaps 85 percent, as Bryant puts it). With the Cowboys on a bye in Week 5, we expect him to be much further along when he takes on New England and their struggling pass defense. He should remain a quality play for that matchup, though his health status should be monitored.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports that Cowboys owner and general manager Jerry Jones said during his weekly Tuesday radio appearance in Dallas that he has been surprised by WR Dez Bryant's ability to play through his thigh injury. "It's absolutely been a small miracle that he's been able to come out and play in the last three ballgames," Jones said. "When you can barely run during the week and then come out and play."
Analysis: Bryant has not been able to practice and has not been able to work with the first-team offense throughout the week. His conditioning has come into question as a result. So while he continues to play, it does appear that both the Cowboys and Fantasy owners are getting a version of Bryant that is far less than 100 percent. Bryant caught two touchdown passes in the first half against Detroit on Sunday, though he finished with only three catches in the game. With the Cowboys on a bye in Week 5, we expect him to be much further along when he takes on New England and their struggling pass defense. He should remain a quality play for that matchup, though his health status should be monitored.
News: Cowboys coach Jason Garrett told the Ft. Worth Star-Telegram on Monday that while Dez Bryant continues to play through his thigh injury, it continues to limit his conditioning. "He hasn’t been able to practice, and he really hasn’t been able to run," Garrett said. "Our training staff has done a great job trying to get as much work with him as possible without taking any backward steps on the thigh bruise, but that’s definitely a factor. Receivers need to be able to run throughout the ball game, and when you don’t practice, and you don’t run throughout the week, it’s hard for you to maintain the pace that you need to maintain throughout a 60-minute game." Bryant caught three passes for 37 yards and two touchdowns in Week 4 against the Lions.
Analysis: Both of Bryant's touchdown catches came in the first half on Sunday but he was not able to do much as the game went on. His inability to practice will likely continue to hinder his conditioning, so keep an eye on his progress going forward. A bye in Week 5 should help his cause going forward and we expect a much healthier Bryant in Week 6 when the Cowboys take on a Patriots team that has struggled against the pass this season. He should also get some help with the likely return of fellow receiver Miles Austin to take some of the defensive attention from him. Continue to view Byrant as a must-start going forward, but seek bye week alternatives for Week 5.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant was cleared to play after being a game-time decision for Week 4 against the Lions due to his lingering thigh injury. He caught two touchdown passes in the first half, though he finished with only three catches in the game. He was targeted five times in the game.
Analysis: Bryant looked like a world beater again in the first half of this game, but was eventually taken away by the Lions pass defense. That allowed Laurent Robinson to flourish on the other side. Bryant looked healthy, though he may still not be 100 percent. He had to be cleared after testing his thigh injury prior to the game. A bye in Week 5 should help his cause going forward and we expect a much healthier Bryant in Week 6 when the Cowboys take on a Patriots team that has struggled against the pass this season. He should also get some help with the likely return of fellow receiver Miles Austin to take some of the defensive attention from him. Continue to view Byrant as a must-start going forward, but seek bye week alternatives for Week 5.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant (thigh) was officially listed as active and in the starting lineup for Week 4 against the Lions. He had been considered a game-time decision.
Analysis: Bryant was seen testing out his injured thigh on the field prior to going back to the locker room. He reportedly gave reporters a thumbs up as he went back to the locker room, indicating he will play. How much he might be able to play remains somewhat undetermined and understand you'll be taking a mild risk by starting him given his injury. However, it does appear that you'll at least be seeing him give it a go against Detroit.
News: ESPN reports that Cowboys WR Dez Bryant will play in Week 4 against Detroit. Bryant, who was considered a game-time decision, was seen testing out his injured thigh on the field prior to going back to the locker room.
Analysis: Bryant reportedly gave reporters a thumbs up as he went back to the locker room, indicating he will play. With inactives out soon, we should have official word of his being active for you. How much he might be able to play remains somewhat undetermined and understand you'll be taking a mild risk by starting him given his injury. However, it does appear that you'll at least be seeing him give it a go against Detroit.
News: Dallas WR Dez Bryant was considered questionable on the injury report for the team's matchup against Detroit in Week 4. Bryant didn't practice Thursday or Friday because of a bruised thigh after being able to partake in Wednesday's session. Bryant will reportedly test out his ailing thigh before Sunday's game and will likely be a game-time decision.
Analysis: Bryant was also listed as questionable on last week's injury report prior to the Cowboys' game against Washington. Dallas will be without starting WR Miles Austin again this week so Bryant's presence would certainly be a benefit to QB Tony Romo. He finished with four receptions and 63 yards in Week 3 against the Redskins. Detroit's defense has been stingy all season and is permitting an average of 17.2 Fantasy points per game this year. If Bryant is healthy enough to play, consider him a low-end No. 2 Fantasy WR because of the injury.
News: Despite playing Monday night against Washington, Cowboys WR Dez Bryant might not be completely over this nagging thigh bruise he suffered back in Week 1. Bryant wasn't spotted at practice on Thursday and was limited in Wednesday’s light practice as well. The Cowboys will play the Lions in Week 4. "It’s just him working through the injury," Cowboys coach Jason Garrett said. "Dez has had the thigh contusion that he was able to work through it last week and practiced a little bit by the end of the week and got himself to play in the game. When you stress it like you do in the course of a ball game, sometimes it doesn’t bounce back as quickly as you want it to. He just has to continue to work his way through it. We’re hoping by the end of the week he can practice a little bit more and be ready to play in the ball game. We’ll take that one day to day."
Analysis: Bryant was limited leading up to Week 3 and still played, so he still has a good chance to play Week 4. But it wouldn't surprise us either if he is a game-time decision again. Miles Austin is already expected to sit out Sunday, so if they lose Bryant than the receiving corps would feature Kevin Ogletree, Laurent Robinson and Jesse Holley. Continue to track Bryant's progress, but if he plays Week 4, then he is a viable Fantasy option. The Lions have allowed the sixth fewest Fantasy points in standard-scoring leagues to opposing WRs, but Bryant is typically above matchup-based starting.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant was able to practice on Wednesday. He played in Week 3 against Washington after missing Week 2 in San Francisco with a thigh injury.
Analysis: Bryant caught four passes for 63 yards on Monday night. His quarterback, Tony Romo, is also playing though a broken rib and punctured lung and fellow WR Miles Austin is dealing with a hamstring injury that threatens to sideline him again in Week 4. The Cowboys play the red-hot Lions in Week 4. Detroit has been very good at limiting the Fantasy points scored by opposing WRs thus far after three games. In fact, only one touchdown has been scored against them by a WR on the year. Bryant should be healthy enough to use as a No. 2 Fantasy WR.
News: Dallas WR Dez Bryant certainly looked hesitant at times on Monday night in a win over the Redskins. Still, when it came down to it, Bryant came down with the catch of the game for Tony Romo. The game-winning field goal was set up on a third-and-21 play as Tony Romo scrambled and found Bryant for 30 yards and the first down. Bryant, playing with a thigh injury, finished with four catches for a team-high 63 yards. He was only targeted four times in the game.
Analysis: Bryant was definitely hindered, but came up huge when the Cowboys and Romo needed him most in Week 3. Bryant could once again be the No. 1 receiver for the Cowboys if Miles Austin has to miss more time. That said, the Cowboys play the red-hot Lions in Week 4. Detroit has been very good at limiting the Fantasy points scored by opposing WRs thus far after three games. In fact, only one touchdown has been scored against them by a WR on the year. Bryant might be healthy enough to use as a No. 2 Fantasy WR with Austin out. If Austin plays, Bryant would still be worth starting in most Fantasy formats.
News: Dallas WR Dez Bryant (thigh) was active for the Week 3 Monday night game against Washington. Bryant was expected to play coming into the game and was seen warming up prior to the contest. He did not appear to be limping at that time. Bryant will wear thigh pads in the game for the first time since high school.
Analysis: Bryant has had an entire week of treatment and should be able to play his usual primary receiving role against the Redskins. With Miles Austin ruled out due to a hamstring, Bryant could be targeted even more than usual unless the Redskins figure out a way to key in on him defensively enough to take him out of the game. Bryant's explosive playmaking ability, however, should allow him to be a factor in Week 3 and makes him a good play in any format for Fantasy owners that took the calculated risk of leaving him in active lineups this week.
News: Dallas WR Dez Bryant (thigh), expected to play in the Week 3 Monday night game against the Redskins, was on the field throwing and catching with wide receiver Kevin Ogletree during warmups, reports ESPN.com. Bryant was not seen limping, though he wasn't running, either. Bryant has been listed as questionable on the injury report and is a game-time decision for the Cowboys. Every single indication up to this point has been good news in favor of Bryant starting and playing a full game against the Redskins on Monday night.
Analysis: Bryant was deactivated in Week 2 after he was unable to get his leg loose enough in pregame warmups. He has had an entire week of treatment and should be able to play his usual primary receiving role against the Redskins. With Miles Austin ruled out due to a hamstring, Bryant could be targeted even more than usual unless the Redskins figure out a way to key in on him defensively enough to take him out of the game. Bryant's explosive playmaking ability, however, should allow him to be a factor in Week 3 and makes him a good play in any format for Fantasy owners that took the calculated risk of leaving him in active lineups this week.
News: ESPN reports that WR Dez Bryant (thigh) is expected to play in Week 3 against Washington after the treatment sessions that he underwent throughout the week. Bryant participated on a limited basis in practice on Saturday, catching passes from QB Tony Romo. He has been listed as questionable on the injury report.
Analysis: Bryant was deactivated in Week 2 after he was unable to get his leg loose enough in pregame warmups. He has had an entire week of treatment and should be able to play his usual primary receiving role against the Redskins. With Miles Austin ruled out due to a hamstring, Bryant could be targeted even more than usual unless the Redskins figure out a way to key in on him defensively enough to take him out of the game. Bryant's explosive playmaking ability, however, should allow him to be a factor in Week 3 and makes him a good play in any format for Fantasy owners that took the calculated risk of leaving him in active lineups this week.
News: Dallas WR Dez Bryant participated on a limited basis in practice on Saturday, catching passes from QB Tony Romo. He is listed as questionable on the injury report for Week 3's game on Monday night against the Redskins. Bryant is trying to come back from a thigh injury suffered in Week 1. The team's official website reports that Bryant considers himself a game-time decision. "I'm fine," Bryant said. "I'm not for sure. It's not a for sure deal."
Analysis: We're glad he practiced, but there is a realistic shot that Bryant does not play on Monday night. If you have a good replacement for him on your roster, it's probably worth taking the safe route and benching a banged-up Bryant for a reliable alternative who plays on Sunday. If you don't have a good backup, or if you want to chance it with Dez, do yourself a favor and check out Jabar Gaffney, Jesse Holley or Kevin Ogletree on waivers. That way if Bryant's out, you can slide one of those receivers into your lineup and avoid getting a zero in your lineup. We'll continue to keep you posted up until game time on Monday.
News: After it was believed that WR Dez Bryant participated in practice on Friday, the Cowboys announced Friday that he did not practice. The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports that the team says Bryant did dress for practice but didn't take any reps. "Dez is working his way back from an injury, and I think he's progressing on a daily basis," head coach Jason Garrett said. "I think he's done more today than he has the last couple of days, so we’'e certainly optimistic about him. But again, he's day to day just like the other guys are. If he's not able to go, we'll just have someone else go in his place and move forward."
Analysis: Sounds like Saturday might be the determining day for Bryant. Because the Cowboys play on Monday night, they have an extra day to get ready. That means that Saturday will be their last big day of practice. If Bryant doesn't work then, Fantasy owners should be prepared to move on without him when they finalize their Week 3 lineups. If he does practice Saturday, then owners should feel better about starting Bryant as a No. 2 WR over a receiver who plays on Sunday. If you want to play it safe, hit waivers for Jabar Gaffney, Jesse Holley or Kevin Ogletree -- all receivers who will play on Monday in the Redskins-Cowboys game and can be used as last-minute replacements for Bryant. We'll continue to keep you posted.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant (thigh) showed up at practice Friday after sitting out Thursday. The Cowboys don't play Week 3 until Monday night against the Redskins. The Redskins enter Sunday's contest ranked 17th against the pass, allowing 235.5 yards per game. Washington has only given up two touchdowns through the air and surrendered an average of 21 Fantasy points to opposing WRs thus far.
Analysis: There are reports surfacing that Bryant has made enough progress to be on track to play Week 3, but coach Jason Garrett continues to evaluate him on a day-to-day basis. It's great he is back at practice and getting Bryant active for Week 3 has become a priority with Miles Austin (hamstring) expected to sit. Bryant caught eight passes for 56 yards in his lone meeting against the Redskins last season and can be viewed as a No. 2 Fantasy WR on Monday night, if he is able to play.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant (thigh) did not practice on Thursday, according to CBSSports.com Cowboys Rapid Reporter Nick Eatman. Cowboys coach Jason Garrett said Wednesday that Bryant is considered "day to day." The Redskins enter Sunday's contest ranked 17th against the pass, allowing 235.5 yards per game. Washington has only given up two touchdowns through the air and surrendered an average of 21 Fantasy points to opposing WRs thus far.
Analysis: The early reports were the Cowboys expect Bryant to return in Week 3, but it's all based on how his thigh responds during the practice week. Miles Austin is expected to sit Monday, so Bryant should see plenty of targets heading in his direction if he is able to get back on the field. Fantasy owners should obviously continue to monitor his status throughout the remainder of the week. Bryant caught eight passes for 56 yards in his lone meeting against the Redskins last season and can be viewed as a No. 2 Fantasy WR on Monday night, if he is able to play.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant (thigh) did not practice on Thursday, according to CBSSports.com Cowboys Rapid Reporter Nick Eatman. Cowboys coach Jason Garrett said Wednesday that Bryant is considered "day to day."
Analysis: The early reports were the Cowboys expect Bryant to return in Week 3, but it's all based on how his thigh responds during the practice week. Miles Austin is expected to sit Monday, so getting Bryant back is a priority. If he is back, then consider starting Bryant in Fantasy.
News: Cowboys coach Jason Garrett said Wednesday that receivers Miles Austin and Dez Bryant are day-to-day leading up to Week 3 at Washington. Austin aggravated a hamstring injury in Sunday's win over San Francisco. Bryant has been out with a bruised thigh. Dallas' players had an extra day off Wednesday. They resume practice Thursday ahead of the Monday night game.
Analysis: The early reports are the Cowboys expect Bryant to return in Week 3, but it's all based on how his thigh responds during the practice week. Austin is expected to sit Monday, so getting Bryant back is a priority. If he is back, then consider starting Bryant in Fantasy.
News: The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports Cowboys WR Dez Bryant (thigh) is expected to return Week 3 against the Redskins. He sat out Sunday's game against the 49ers. "We're hopeful that that thing gets drained out a little bit this week and he can run a little more in practice," coach Jason Garrett said. "The fact that we have an extra day certainly could help him."
Analysis: With the reports surfacing that WR Miles Austin could miss several weeks with a hamstring injury, then getting back Bryant for Week 3 is certainly a priority. This is just speculation at this time. Fantasy owners are going to have to monitor Bryant's status all week before making a Week 3 lineup decision. If he is back, then consider starting Bryant in Fantasy. Even if QB Tony Romo (ribs, lung) can't play, don't forget that QB Jon Kitna had a lot of success getting the football to Bryant last season.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant was inactive for Sunday's Week 2 contest against the 49ers. He's dealing with a thigh injury and was a big question mark entering the contest. Kevin Ogletree took his place in the starting lineup.
Analysis: This is definitely not good for the Cowboys as they try to get on track after losing in Week 1. Bryant was targeted eight times in Week 1, so he's fast becoming a favorite of Tony Romo. Fantasy owners should have a healthy alternative for Bryant this week and hope he's able to get back on the field soon.
News: NFL.com reports Cowboys WR Dez Bryant, who is questionable for Week 2 against the 49ers, would have to show improvement in pregame activities to dress Sunday, but internal expectations are not high for him.
Analysis: It's gone downhill pretty quick for Bryant, who on Thursday looked as though he was going to play. Then Friday his owner downgraded his status and it appears Bryant might not dress Sunday. Even if he plays, Bryant is clearly an injury-risk Fantasy option, so Fantasy owners might consider healthier alternatives for Week 2.
News: A day after saying Dez Bryant, who has a bruised thigh, would play Week 2 against the 49ers, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones backed off his comments Friday as he appeared on 105.3 The Fan. "We're going to have to monitor that and are monitoring it," Jones said. "He didn't practice the last couple of days, but we'll see how he does (Friday) and of course we've got at least 48 hours before kickoff time. Hopefully he'll feel better as we get closer to Sunday." Bryant didn't practice and is listed as questionable for Sunday's game. If he can't play, then Kevin Ogletree steps into the starting lineup to start opposite Miles Austin.
Analysis: It's looking like Bryant is going to be a game-time call for Week 2. If Bryant is active on Sunday, then view him as a No. 2 Fantasy WR. The 49ers allowed Seahawks WRs to total 137 yards and two touchdowns in Week 1.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant was absent from practice again Thursday due to a bruised thigh. He was limited to riding a stationary bike on Wednesday, but the Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports owner Jerry Jones said Bryant should be fine to play Week 2 against the 49ers. Additionally, Bryant himself told ESPN that he's feeling good and expects to practice on Friday.
Analysis: Expect Bryant to play in Week 2 so long as he goes though the motions on Friday. That's news we'll have for you as soon as it happens. If Bryant is indeed active at San Francisco, then he is a No. 2 Fantasy WR. The matchup, like pretty much most matchups for Bryant, is a good one.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant didn't practice Wednesday because of a thigh contusion he suffered in Week 1 against the Jets. The Dallas Morning News reports Bryant rode a stationary bike on Wednesday and declined to talk to reporters. HId coach did not. "He loves to play and wants to get himself out there," coach Jason Garrett said. "Now, unfortunately, he has some injuries since he's been here - some serious, legitimate injuries that he's had to fight through and he'll continue to learn how to fight through those in practice and get himself out to practice and get himself as ready as he can be come game time..." Dallas travels to San Francisco in Week 2.
Analysis: Bryant finished out the game Week 1 despite missing some time during the loss to the Jets. The fact he isn't talking might signal this injury is a nagging issue, but that doesn't mean Bryant doesn't have a chance to play Week 2. We will just have to continue to track his progress. If Bryant is active, then he is a No. 2 Fantasy WR.
News: According to the team's official website, Cowboys WR Dez Bryant played through a bruised quadriceps muscle during the team's Week 1 loss at the Jets. He suffered the injury early in the game on a punt return. Afterward, he said the quad was "a little tight." He also dealt with cramping up during the game.
Analysis: Bryant caught a 3-yard scoring strike from QB Tony Romo in the first quarter and finished with three catches for 71 yards in the 27-24 loss. He was targeted for eight passes and had a long reception of 42 yards. Bryant also had one punt return for 12 yards, but word out of New York is that owner Jerry Jones has indicated he would prefer that Bryant no longer be used in that role. The 22-year-old is quickly become the big-play threat in Dallas and should continue to see a ton of passes thrown his way by Romo. Heading into Week 2 against the 49ers, continue to view Bryant as no worse than a No. 2 Fantasy WR while continuing to monitor his injury status. Barring a setback, however, he should be good to go.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant was able to find the end zone in Week 1 against the Jets. He caught a 3-yard scoring strike from QB Tony Romo in the first quarter and finished with three catches for 71 yards in the 27-24 loss. He was targeted for eight passes and had a long reception of 42 yards. Bryant also had one punt return for 12 yards.
Analysis: Bryant had to leave Sunday briefly due to cramping but he was able to come back out and finish the game. While he caught less than half of the passes he was targeted for, he was blanketed by Darrelle Revis most of the night and still ended up with some decent stats. The 22-year-old is quickly become the big-play threat in Dallas and should continue to see a ton of passes thrown his way by Romo. Heading into Week 2 against the 49ers, continue to view Bryant as no worse than a No. 2 Fantasy WR.
News: According to ESPN.com, the Jets are expected to use CB Darrelle Revis on Cowboys WR Miles Austin and CB Antonio Cromartie on WR Dez Bryant based on the way both line up. The report says Bryant might be a better matchup for Cromartie because he generally lines up as the 'X' receiver (split end). Usually, that's Cromartie's side. Austin is more versatile than Bryant because he's used in different spots, including the slot. Revis praised Bryant. "I'll put Dez Bryant in the category of Terrell Owens," said Revis. "Very explosive. Can run. Strong. This is his second year. You can tell, he has the talent to be one of the best in the league."
Analysis: Bryant should still be able to play at a high level in Week 1 even with the tough matchup against the Jets corners. New York finished sixth in the league in passing defense last season and were even better at stopping the run. We consider Bryant a solid No. 2 WR in all leagues, and hopefully he can play well in his first game back from last year's broken leg.
News: Cowboys QB Tony Romo and WR Dez Bryant hooked up for 67 yards on Saturday at Minnesota, leaving Romo pleased with the effort. But Romo thinks more could be done. "Dez is doing a good job," said Romo. "He runs great routes and he has good hands, and we need him to get better with the details."
Analysis: Bryant has worlds of potential thanks to his big size and excellent speed. Better yet, because he plays in Dallas with playmakers like Miles Austin and Jason Witten, seeing double coverage won't be a regular occurence. He's got some major upside this year and is worth taking as a No. 2 Fantasy WR with potential to play as a No. 1 ... or a No. 3. He's worth the risk starting in late Round 4.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports that Cowboys WR Dez Bryant was just happy to play football again Thursday night against Denver even if he didn't catch a pass in the preseason opener. Bryant's rookie year was cut short after he suffered a fractured right ankle on a kick return in Week 13. Before the injury, Bryant caught 45 passes for 561 yards and six touchdowns. He also scored on two of his 15 punt returns. "When I got my ankle broke, I felt like the world was ending, but now it feels great," Bryant said Thursday. "It's like a kid with his 30-minute recess." Cowboys QB Tony Romo targeted Bryant once during the Cowboys' first possession, however, the third-and-10 pass fell short on the ninth play of the series. The Cowboys then settled for a field goal. Bryant was asked after the game if this was the best he has ever felt physically. His response came with no hesitation. "That's how I feel," he confirmed. "I feel strong."
Analysis: We like Bryant as a solid No. 2 Fantasy WR with upside, and he should do well even as the No. 3 target for Romo behind Miles Austin and Jason Witten. Plan on drafting Bryant as early as Round 4 in standard leagues, and he should play well in 2011 as long as he stays healthy.
News: Cowboys coach Jason Garrett said Saturday that WR Dez Bryant will likely be in the mix to handle kickoffs and punts again this season, according to the Dallas Morning News. Bryant practiced handling high-arching balls from a machine during Saturday's practice. "Punt return, I love it. Kick return, I love it," Bryant told the newspaper. "I will do whatever the coaches want me to do." Bryant averaged 24.4 yards per return while handling 12 kickoffs last season.
Analysis: Bryant was a key player in the Cowboys' special teams unit last year -- until he got hurt. The second-year player fractured his fibula on a kickoff against Indianapolis in early December and missed the rest of his rookie season. Bryant finished with 45 receptions for 561 yards and six touchdowns while emerging as a strong pairing with fellow WR Miles Austin. He should eclipse those numbers with QB Tony Romo's return from injury, and Fantasy owners should target him as early as Round 4 in upcoming drafts.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant not only feels healthy heading into the 2011 season, but he feels better than he did as a dynamic rookie. The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reported Monday that he is even understanding the playbook better in his second go-around. "I feel better than last year," Bryant said. "I'm so excited. I can't wait to get on the field. I'm more confident. I know the playbook better. I was shy last year. Now it's none of that. I feel good."
Analysis: Bryant electrified the Dallas offense in his rookie season, despite missing the final four games of the regular season. He notched 45 catches for 561 yards and six scores in the limited time, and he added two more touchdowns as a punt returner. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on Bryant's health more than anything heading into the season, as he ascends to a starting role without much competition now that Roy Williams is out of the picture. He still has to contend with Miles Austin and Jason Witten for the attention of QB Tony Romo in the passing game, but there still should be plenty of touches to go around. Bryant is worth drafting as a No. 2 Fantasy WR, as early as Round 4 or 5.
News: The Fort Worth Star-Telegram caught up with Cowboys WR Dez Bryant at a charity event over the weekend. Bryant said he is fully recovered from a broken ankle that ended his 2010 season after 12 games. "I'm very healthy. I would show y'all what I've been working on, but I am going to wait until the lockout is over and y'all are going to see it full effect," he said. "I feel like this is the year. I am just trying to start back where I left off." Bryant added he hasn't been limited in any of his workouts. "I love working out. I feel like every day, even when nothing is wrong, I feel like I have a chip on my shoulder to get better every day," he said. "That's the approach I've been taking, and I can't wait until this lockout is over with."
Analysis: Bryant might have his off-the-field issues dating back to his college days, but on the field this kid gets the job done. Bryant totaled six touchdowns in his last eight games before getting injured and should only get better as he gets more experience under his belt. He still has to contend with Miles Austin and Jason Witten for the attention of QB Tony Romo in the passing game, but there still should be plenty of touches to go around. Bryant is worth drafting as a No. 2 Fantasy WR, as early as Round 4 or 5.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports that judging by the basketball game he played Saturday, Cowboys WR Dez Bryant appears to be in good physical shape. While participating in Josh Howard’s 5th Annual Celebrity Weekend in Dallas, Bryant held his own on a court that included NBA stars like Howard, LaMarcus Aldridge and Rashard Lewis. Bryant, who played in 12 games in 2010 before ending his rookie campaign with a broken ankle, didn’t show any signs of physical weakness. He effortlessly threw down dunks during pregame warm-ups before playing the majority of the 40-minute game. He also ran up and down the floor, was able to shoot threes and play defense, and Bryant never favored the ankle he injured during the final quarter of a December game in Indianapolis.
Analysis: With the return of QB Tony Romo and Bryant showing as a rookie he can be a legitimate playmaker, we look for great things in 2011, especially since he's healthy. He should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy WR on Draft Day as long as he's 100 percent healthy, and we recommend drafting Bryant with a pick as early as Round 4 or 5.
News: According to NFL.com, Cowboys LB DeMarcus Ware said he's proud of the work that second-year WR Dez Bryant has done this offseason. Ware said Bryant, who ended last season on injured reserve with a broken ankle, has been working out hard with the team during player-only workouts run by QB Tony Romo. "All the things he's done off the field or whatever, he's out there trying to do better," Ware said. "He's at the OTA sessions getting balls from Romo, getting closer with Romo, figuring each other out. He was running routes a month ago, and it was not a problem like the injury didn't hurt him. I think he's going to be a great asset next season."
Analysis: With the return of Romo and Bryant showing as a rookie he can be a legitimate playmaker, we look for great things in 2011, especially since he's healthy. He should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy WR on Draft Day as long as he's 100 percent healthy, and we recommend drafting Bryant with a pick as early as Round 4 or 5.
News: After an offseason he'd like to forget, Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant is proclaiming himself ready for the upcoming NFL schedule. Bryant said he had no lingering effects from the broken ankle he suffered against Indianapolis in early December. It put an abrupt end to his rookie season, when he had 45 catches for 561 yards and six touchdowns and also returned two punts for touchdowns. "I'm very determined to stay healthy this season," Bryant said. "I'm working hard and I am staying focused on that. I'm running routes every day to get ready. It was 104 degrees yesterday and I was running gassers. I feel good and I'm ready to play. ... I think we'll be more aggressive this year with [Garrett] in charge. I still have a bad taste in my mouth after starting 1-7 last year, and that makes me motivated and determined for this season."
Analysis: Bryant added that he's been working out with teammates up to three times per week at an undisclosed location in an attempt to build chemistry in advance of the season. He also is optimistic that there will be a season. With the return of QB Tony Romo and Bryant showing as a rookie he can be a legitimate playmaker, we look for great things in 2011. He should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy WR on Draft Day as long as he's 100 percent healthy, and we recommend drafting Bryant with a pick as early as Round 4 or 5.
News: According to NFL.com, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones remains confident in WR Dez Bryant. "I really wouldn't want to address any particular player. But I will, since I was asked the question -- no, I'm not concerned," Jones said about Bryan'ts off-field behavior. "I think that Dez does have accountability right now, not only within himself, but also to his teammates. And at the end of the day, those two constituencies, Dez himself as well as his teammates, are the ones that are gonna make the biggest difference in his life. So he's in the right area for the right type of influence, and I think that will have a positive impact."
Analysis: With the return of QB Tony Romo and Bryant showing as a rookie he can be a legitimate playmaker, we look for great things in 2011, especially since he's healthy. He should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy WR on Draft Day as long as he's 100 percent healthy, and we recommend drafting Bryant with a pick as early as Round 4 or 5.
News: According to ESPN.com. Cowboys WR Dez Bryant continues to train with his team during player's only workouts. Bryant missed the first of these sessions due to a family issue. But since May 4, Bryant hasn't missed one workout. Bryant, coming off a fractured ankle, appears to be working hard to get ready for the start of the season.
Analysis: With the return of QB Tony Romo and Bryant showing as a rookie he can be a legitimate playmaker, we look for great things in 2011, especially since he's healthy. He should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy WR on Draft Day as long as he's 100 percent healthy, and we recommend drafting Bryant with a pick as early as Round 4 or 5.
News:Dez Bryant was in attendance for the second day of the Cowboys' player-only workouts in Dallas after missing the first day to tend to a family matter. Quarterback Tony Romo said that Bryant looked good in his first work since breaking his leg at the end of last season. "He's running pretty well and he's pretty competitive. He's running half speed so sometimes we have to slow him down a bit," Romo cracked to ESPN.com.
Analysis: It appears as if Bryant is making good progress in his recovery and should be ready to start the year off without a hitch. His practicing with Romo is especially good to hear since the two never really connected in 2010 (Bryant took off once Romo got hurt). There's all kinds of upside for Bryant, who brings a great skill set to the Cowboys' offense. It's hard not to like him as a No. 2 Fantasy WR -- consider him once Round 4 kicks off.
News: It appears as if Dallas WR Dez Bryant is making progress in his recovery from his fractured right fibula, which forced him on injured reserve in December. Bryant said on his Twitter page Tuesday that his "workout was great" and that he "jogged a little and got a good upper body lift." Cowboys coach Jason Garrett recently said Bryant has "made progress" in his rehab as well. Last year as a rookie, Bryant had 45 catches for 561 yards and six touchdowns. He also scored twice on punt returns.
Analysis: With the return of QB Tony Romo and Bryant showing as a rookie he can be a legitimate playmaker, we look for great things in 2011. He should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy WR on Draft Day as long as he's 100 percent healthy, and we recommend drafting Bryant with a pick as early as Round 4 or 5.
News: The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports that Cowboys WR Dez Bryant is up and running. Cowboys coach Jason Garrett said Bryant has "made progress" in his rehab of a fractured right fibula, advancing to a little running. "He’s going through his rehab, and it’s been a positive experience for him," Garrett said Thursday at the combine in Indianapolis. "We have great people with the Cowboys who take him through that stuff. It’s getting better." Bryant was injured Dec. 5 on a kickoff return in the Cowboys' 38-35 overtime victory over the Colts in Indianapolis. He had surgery the next day to have a plate inserted in his right leg to stabilize the bone. He was put on injured reserve after making 45 catches for 561 yards and six touchdowns. He also scored twice on punt returns.
Analysis: With the return of QB Tony Romo and Bryant showing as a rookie he can be a legitimate playmaker, we look for great things in 2011. He should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy WR on Draft Day as long as he's 100 percent healthy, and we recommend drafting Bryant with a pick as early as Round 4 or 5.
News: New Dallas wide receivers coach Jimmy Robinson said he is eager to work with talented WR Dez Bryant next season. "He's a guy that, as time goes by, can show he can do it all," Robinson said. "It's my job to help him do that. It's going to be a gradual process, but I'm anxious for the opportunity." Robinson joined the Cowboys after five seasons with Green Bay and has been an NFL assistant for 21 years after six seasons as a player.
Analysis: Bryant should improve under the tutelage of Robinson, who has created quite a track record in his distinguished career. Robinson has worked with several star receivers, including Donald Driver, Marvin Harrison and Joe Horn. Last season, Bryant finished with 45 receptions for 561 yards and six touchdowns before suffering a season-ending ankle injury in Week 13. He possesses upside with QB Tony Romo returning in 2011 and should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy WR.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant is off his crutches after having surgery to repair a fractured right ankle, reports ESPN.com. He is not yet ready to start running but "is on target" on his rehab according to team owner Jerry Jones. Bryant caught 45 passes for 561 yards and six touchdowns over 12 games last season, including 359 yards and five touchdowns in Weeks 6 through 10. He also returned two punts for touchdowns.
Analysis: There's so much upside here given his size/speed combination and the type of aggressive passing offense the Cowboys employ. Bryant should be drafted as a No. 2 Fantasy WR this summer, worth a pick between Rounds 4 and 6.
News: A day after a report on ESPN.com surfaced suggesting that the Cowboys would entertain an offer of a first-round pick for WR Dez Bryant, Cowboys vice president Stephen Jones told the Fort Worth Star-Telegram that the report is "totally wrong." Bryant caught 45 passes for 561 yards and six touchdowns over 12 games last season, including 359 yards and five touchdowns in Weeks 6 through 10, stats that suggest that the Cowboys would keep their young talent for a while.
Analysis: It would be a shocker if Bryant was moved this offseason, especially since he's only played the one year and shown lots of promise. We feel Bryant should be drafted as a No. 2 Fantasy WR this summer, worth a pick between Rounds 4 and 6.
News: After catching 45 passes for 561 yards and six touchdowns over 12 games last season, including 359 yards and five touchdowns in Weeks 6 through 10, all signs point to Dez Bryant as the Cowboys' star receiver of the future. But ESPN.com reports that the Cowboys would consider moving Bryant if it meant getting a first-round pick in return, citing that a front-office member said he or she "would think about it." The report added a quote from ex-Cowboys WR Patrick Crayton, who suggested that Bryant had a lot of leeway in his first year and might not be the hard-working receiver he comes off as on the field. Bryant was late to several meetings as a rookie and didn't have a full understanding of the playbook. His first season ended due to a broken ankle.
Analysis: It would be a shocker if Bryant was moved this offseason, especially since he's only played the one year and shown lots of promise. We feel Bryant should be drafted as a No. 2 Fantasy WR this summer, worth a pick between Rounds 4 and 6.
News: Cowboys rookie WR Dez Bryant underwent successful surgery Monday morning on a broken right fibula suffered Sunday against the Colts. Bryant’s spectacular rookie season ends with 45 catches for 561 yards and six touchdowns, along with two scores on punt returns. “It was unfortunate," coach Jason Garrett said. "We talk about his passion and enthusiasm for the game, in practice and in the games, we certainly see that. It’s unfortunate he won’t have the last four games.”
Analysis: Bryant came on strong between Weeks 6 through 10, totaling five of his six offensive scores and 359 yards. Nearly all of it came with Jon Kitna as his quarterback, not Tony Romo. Bryant can be dropped in all standard leagues, but his upside for 2011 is huge, so no one should cut him in dynasty/keeper league play. As of now, Bryant is a candidate to break out next season and will be drafted as a No. 2 receiver next summer.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant fractured his right ankle on a kickoff return early in the fourth quarter Week 13 at Indianapolis. He'll have surgery Monday, according to ESPNDallas.com, and miss the rest of the season. He had one catch for 14 yards before leaving. He missed the entire preseason with a high sprain in the same ankle.
Analysis: Despite missing the entire preseason, Bryant stepped in as a rookie and became a critical part of the Cowboys offense, especially when Jon Kitna took over for Tony Romo at quarterback. He had fallen on hard times lately, catching a total of four passes for 22 yards over his last three games. Clearly, you should cut Bryant in all seasonal formats, though his upside gives him some value in keeper leagues still. Roy E. Williams' numbers could improve without Bryant, and owner Jerry Jones mentioned Kevin Ogletree as another player whose role could increase with Bryant sidelined.
News: Cowboys rookie WR Dez Bryant appeared to twist his right ankle on a kickoff return earlier in the fourth quarter and needed help off the field. His status for the rest of the game is unknown. He had one catch for 14 yards before leaving.
Analysis: Bryant has been dealing with a sore ankle all season and may have a full-fledged sprain now. He hasn't been particularly productive in recent weeks, catching a total of four passes for 22 yards over his last three, but he was a favorite of backup QB Jon Kitna earlier in the season. He'll surely be a question mark heading into Week 14 against the Eagles, but if he can play, he'll be worth using as a No. 3 Fantasy WR.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant, who was limited in practice this week by back and ankle injuries, is active for Week 13 at Indianapolis. He has played in every game this season, but he went without a catch in Week 12 and has just three catches for 8 yards over the last two weeks.
Analysis: At times, Bryant has been the go-to guy in the Cowboys passing game, but he has to compete for looks with Miles Austin, Jason Witten and Roy E. Williams. The Colts have a tough pass defense, which could lead to more troubles for Bryant, but he's worth using as a No. 2 Fantasy WR in what could be a high-scoring game.
News: The Dallas Cowboys updated the injury report for Week 13 at Indianapolis. Wide receiver Dez Bryant, already probable with a back injury, is also dealing with a left ankle injury. The ankle should not change his status for the game against the Colts and he remains probable to play. Bryant, who leads the Cowboys with six TD catches, has a total of three catches for 8 yards over his last two games and could have a hard time bouncing back Week 13 at Indianapolis. He'll be facing a Colts defense that surrenders just 18.4 Fantasy points per game to wide receivers, eighth-lowest in the NFL. The Colts rank sixth against the pass, allowing 204.5 yards per game, and just gave up 185 yards to Chargers QB Philip Rivers last week.
Analysis: Don't worry too much about the back injury and the ankle problem shouldn't matter much, either in Week 13. The injuries are probably the least of Bryant's problems seeing how his production has plummeted. The Cowboys tried the get the ball to Bryant last week, targeting him six times, but the rookie ran some bad routes and didn't look like the same player who scored six touchdowns in six games from Week 6 to Week 11. The Cowboys still have high hopes for the rookie wide receiver, so he will not be shut out of the game plan. Bryant is still a preferred receiving option for QB Jon Kitna, but he has to compete with several other targets and doesn't have an ideal matchup this week. Treat him as a No. 2 Fantasy WR.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant (back) was limited in practice Friday for a second straight day, but he is listed as probable for Week 13 against the Colts. Bryant, who leads the Cowboys with six TD catches, has a total of three catches for 8 yards over his last two games and could have a hard time bouncing back Week 13 at Indianapolis. He'll be facing a Colts defense that surrenders just 18.4 Fantasy points per game to wide receivers, eighth-lowest in the NFL. The Colts rank sixth against the pass, allowing 204.5 yards per game, and just gave up 185 yards to Chargers QB Philip Rivers last week.
Analysis: Don't worry too much about this back injury. It's probably the least of Bryant's problems seeing how his production has plummeted. The Cowboys tried the get the ball to Bryant last week, targeting him six times, but the rookie ran some bad routes and didn't look like the same player who scored six touchdowns in six games from Week 6 to Week 11. The Cowboys still have high hopes for the rookie wide receiver, so he will not be shut out of the game plan. Bryant is still a preferred receiving option for QB Jon Kitna, but he has to compete with several other targets and doesn't have an ideal matchup this week. Treat him as a No. 2 Fantasy WR.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant did not speak to the media following last week's loss to the Saints after he failed to record a reception for the first time all season. Bryant, who leads the Cowboys with six TD catches, has a total of three catches for eight yards over his last two games and will have a hard time bouncing back Week 13 at Indianapolis. He'll be facing a Colts defense that surrenders just 18.4 Fantasy points per game to wide receivers, eighth-lowest in the NFL. The Colts rank sixth against the pass, allowing 204.5 yards per game, and just gave up 185 yards to Chargers QB Philip Rivers last week.
Analysis: The Cowboys tried the get the ball to Bryant last week, targeting him six times, but the rookie ran some bad routes and didn't look like the same player who scored six touchdowns in six games from Week 6 to Week 11. Still, he didn't lose any favor with the coaching staff. "He's a great competitor," coach Jason Garrett said. "I thought he handled that situation well throughout the ballgame, didn't seem distracted to me, was excited, was passionate, but was ready to go." Bryant is still a preferred receiving option for QB Jon Kitna, but he has to compete with several other targets and doesn't have an ideal matchup this week. Treat him as a No. 2 Fantasy WR. He is back on the practice report with a back injury, but he is expected to dress Week 13. If he has a setback, we will let you know.
News: For the first time in his young career, Dallas rookie WR Dez Bryant did not have a catch in Thursday's game against New Orleans on Thanksgiving Day in Week 12. But the Cowboys certainly tried to get the ball to him, targeting him six times, including three on the final drive. Bryant did have a carry for no gain. Cowboys QB Jon Kitna was spotted yellng at Bryant for running an incorrect route, and a pass set for Bryant on the Cowboys' last play was also off target because of a miscommunication (Kitna took blame for that one).
Analysis: This was a tough matchup for Bryant since the Saints are the best team against opposing wide receivers, and they have only allowed three wide receivers to score touchdowns this year. Bryant came into the game playing at a high level with three touchdowns in his past three games and six touchdowns in his past six outings. He should bounce back in Week 13 at the Colts, and even with the shutout, he's worth starting in the majority of Fantasy leagues as a No. 2 WR.
News: Dallas WR Dez Bryant has a difficult matchup in Week 12 against New Orleans on Thanksgiving Day. The Saints are the best team against opposing wide receivers, and they have only allowed three wide receivers to score touchdowns this year. Still, Bryant is playing at a high level coming into this game with three touchdowns in his past three games and six touchdowns in his past six outings. He has 27 catches for 367 yards over that span.
Analysis: Even with the tough matchup, Bryant is worth starting in the majority of leagues. He remains a tremendous red-zone threat, and he should enjoy playing on the national stage with the game on Thanksgiving. Continue to keep him active in most formats.
News: Dallas rookie WR Dez Bryant had a quiet game Sunday against Detroit in Week 11. He finished with three catches for 8 yards and a touchdown on four targets, but this was his fewest yards of the season. He did extend his scoring streak to three games in a row, and he has six touchdowns in his past six games.
Analysis: Bryant's touchdown in the first quarter against the Lions saved his Fantasy production, and he continues to be a standout WR in all leagues. Continue to start Bryant in Week 12 against New Orleans on Thanksgiving Day and hope he is more involved on offense.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports that through nine games WR Dez Bryant has seven touchdowns on the season, the most scores by a Cowboys' rookie since Julius Jones had seven in 2004. Bryant has scored at least one touchdown in four of the last five games, which is a pace he will have to keep up to make a run at Herschel Walker's team rookie record for touchdowns. Walker had 14 touchdowns (12 rushing, two receiving) in 1986. With one more touchdown Bryant ties Calvin Hill, who had eight touchdowns in 1969 and he needs four more to tie Emmitt Smith, who had 11 in 1990. Bob Hayes (1965) and Tony Dorsett (1977) had 13 each. Hayes' 12 touchdown catches are a team rookie record. Bryant's five tie him with Michael Irvin, Mike Sherrard and Billy Joe DuPree. Antonio Bryant had six in 2002. If there is a lock of a mark to break it is most catches by a Cowboys rookie receiver. Hayes had 46 in 1965. Bryant has 41 through nine games. Walker had 76 catches as a rookie.
Analysis: Bryant will look to keep up his standout rookie campaign in Week 11 against Detroit, and it's a favorable matchup for him. The Lions come into this game No. 17 in pass defense at 223 passing yards allowed per game with 13 touchdowns and nine interceptions. Six wide receivers have reached double digits in Fantasy points against Detroit, and Bryant will look to make it seven. QB Jon Kitna continues to look for Bryant, and we see no reason for that to slow down. Consider Bryant a must-start Fantasy WR in all leagues.
News: Dallas WR Dez Bryant had a 45-yard reception late in the first quarter and then was targeted again in the end zone. He was able to make what seemed to be a circus catch over two defenders, but the official said the ball hit the ground. Dallas interim head coach Jason Garrett made his first challenge as coach and won it, giving Bryant his fifth touchdown of the year. They would miss the extra point however. He kept coming up big for Dallas as he had another catch along the sideline, but would leave holding his back as he came down hard. The play was challenged by New York and the call was overturned giving Dallas the ball back at the Giants 40 yard line. Bryant finished with a team-high five targets, catching three passes for a career-high 104 yards. “I feel like if you put it there,” he said, “I’m gonna get it.” He admitted after the game he hurt his back, but would be fine moving forward.
Analysis: Week 10 marked Bryant's third straight career game. Back in Week 8 he had 84 receiving yards, followed by 86 yards last week. The rookie keeps getting better and better, and on Sunday it seemed like the offense was finally on the same page. He has four touchdowns in the two games Dallas played against New York, so perhaps he just likes facing his new division rivals. Looking ahead, Dallas hosts Detroit in Week 11, a team that entered Week 10 giving up 233.2 passing yards per game. With Jon Kitna and the offense clicking, Bryant playing this well, Fantasy owners would be foolish to sit him next week. "You trust in him, you believe in him," Bryant said of Kitna.
News: Dallas rookie WR Dez Bryant enters Week 10 against New York coming off a career game. Bryant had 86 yards receiving in Week 9 on nine receptions -- both career highs. The Giants are allowing just 169.8 passing yards per contest, but Bryant found the end zone three times in his only other meeting versus New York. He had a 93-yard punt return for a score and a pair of 15-yard touchdown receptions. Bryant leads all rookie with six total touchdowns -- four receiving and two in way of the return game.
Analysis: Bryant has Jon Kitna throwing him the ball and has a new head coach -- Jason Garrett. Luckily, he's been working with Garrett all season. The downfall is the offense has struggled. One of the few brights spots for Dallas' offense has been Bryant. The rookie has a tough game in Week 10, but we feel he'll continue his solid season, which is why we view him as a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy WR option for the week.
News: Cowboys rookie WR Dez Bryant racked up 86 yards receiving in the Week 9 loss to the Packers on nine receptions, both career-highs. He also found the end zone for the fourth time in as many games in the second quarter, when QB Jon Kitna threw a jump-ball to him from 2-yards out. Bryant went over Packers DB Sam Shields for the impressive score. Kitna targeted him a team-high 10 times. Bryant also muffed a punt in the loss, recovered by Green Bay.
Analysis: Bryant has elevated his play consistently this season, but he's been on a higher scale since Kitna took over at QB for the injured Romo. The 38-year-old QB has thrown all four TDs that Bryant has hauled in this season. At the halfway point, Bryant has 38 catches for 435 yards and six total TDs, two on punt returns. In Week 10, the Cowboys take on the Giants, who are responsible for Kitna starting the last two games after they injured Tony Romo in Week 7. Bryant finished that game with two TDs from Kitna after Romo left with the broken collarbone. He should be viewed as a solid No. 2 Fanatsy WR heading into the Week 10 rematch.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant looks to continue his productive play heading into the Week 9 game at Green Bay. He has caught 12 passes for 169 yards and three touchdowns in the last three weeks. The Packers have allowed No. 2 WRs to produce well in recent weeks. Anthony Armstrong and Davone Bess scored TDs and Percy Harvin caught five passes for 65 yards against the Packers. Green Bay's defense ranks 17th against the pass, allowing 217.5 yards per game.
Analysis: Bryant has established some good chemistry with Jon Kitna since he has been under center, including two touchdowns in the Week 7 loss to the Giants. The Cowboys could again be facing a considerable deficit against the Packers, so we expect Dallas to continue to lean on the pass. Consider Bryant to be a low-end No. 2 Fantasy WR in the Week 9 game against the Packers.
News: Dallas WR Dez Bryant was targeted plenty by QB Jon Kitna in the Week 8 blowout loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. Bryant, who was targeted nine times by Kitna in his first start with Tony Romo injured, caught seven passes for 84 yards in the game. He did not score but did average 12 yards per catch. Bryant caught two touchdown passes last week from Kitna after Romo left the game but did not get into the end zone in the Week 8 loss.
Analysis: Bryant broke out in Week 7 with two receiving touchdowns and one return touchdown. He had neither in the Week 8 game but definitely saw an increase in targets from any game he's seen with Romo throwing the passes. His Fantasy value is definitely on its way up with Kitna behind center. Playing at Green Bay in Week 9, we'd consider Bryant a viable start as a No. 2 or 3 Fantasy WR.
News: The Cowboys will have wide receiver Dez Bryant available for the Week 8 game against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Bryant was dealing with a slight ankle injury but is going to be fine for the game as he was not listed among the team's inactives. Bryant will be playing his first full game with QB Jon Kitna, who is replacing the injured Tony Romo (shoulder). Bryant caught two touchdowns from Kitna in Week 7 against the Giants, after Kitna replaced the injured Romo. He also returned a punt 93 yards for a score. His 93-yard punt return for a score was the second-longest in Cowboys history and his five total touchdowns current ties him for the most among NFL rookies with Jahvid Best.
Analysis: No team is allowing more Fantasy points per game to opposing receivers than are the Jaguars at 29 points per contest. An opposing WR has recorded at least one touchdown in every game against Jacksonville this season and the team has allowed a total of 12 in seven games. Bryant and Kitna have established a rapport already so give Bryant a start in the Week 8 game.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant (ankle) practiced at full speed on Thursday and Friday after limited reps Wednesday. He is expected to play Week 8 against the Jaguars, he's listed as probable on the team's injury report. Bryant will be playing his first full game with QB Jon Kitna, who is replacing the injured Tony Romo (shoulder). Bryant caught two touchdowns from Kitna in Week 7 against the Giants, after Kitna replaced the injured Romo. He also returned a punt 93 yards for a score. His 93-yard punt return for a score was the second-longest in Cowboys history and his five total touchdowns current ties him for the most among NFL rookies with Jahvid Best.
Analysis: Kitna proved after replacing Romo in Week 7 that he can still sling the football, so the Cowboys might not have to change their game plan much. That bodes well for Bryant because he already has rapport with Kitna and the Jaguars are terrible against wideouts. No team is allowing more Fantasy points per game to opposing receivers than are the Jaguars at 29 points per contest. An opposing WR has recorded at least one touchdown in every game against Jacksonville this season and the team has allowed a total of 12 in seven games. Just last week Dwayne Bowe got into the end zone twice against the Jags. Bryant's time could be right now and we like him for use in most leagues as a No. 2 Fantasy WR.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant (ankle) returned to a full practice Thursday after limited reps Wednesday. He is expected to play Week 8 against the Jaguars. Bryant will be playing his first full game with QB Jon Kitna, who is replacing the injured Tony Romo (shoulder). Bryant caught two touchdowns from Kitna in Week 7 against the Giants, after Kitna replaced the injured Romo. He also returned a punt 93 yards for a score. His 93-yard punt return for a score was the second-longest in Cowboys history and his five total touchdowns current ties him for the most among NFL rookies with Jahvid Best.
Analysis: Kitna proved after replacing Romo in Week 7 that he can still sling the football, so the Cowboys might not have to change their game plan much. That bodes well for Bryant because he already has rapport with Kitna and the Jaguars are terrible against wideouts. No team is allowing more Fantasy points per game to opposing receivers than are the Jaguars at 29 points per contest. An opposing WR has recorded at least one touchdown in every game against Jacksonville this season and the team has allowed a total of 12 in seven games. Just last week Dwayne Bowe got into the end zone twice against the Jags. Bryant's time could be right now and we like him for use in most leagues as a No. 2 Fantasy WR.
News: Dallas rookie wide receiver Dez Bryant saw a large increase in red zone targets in the Week 7 game against the Giants on Monday night. Heading into the Week 8 game against Jacksonville, Bryant might be in for a major Fantasy boost and it could be because of the injury to QB Tony Romo. Once Romo left the game, Bryant got going and backup Jon Kitna hit him for two late touchdown passes in the game. The KR/WR has four touchdowns in his last two games, including a career-high three last week (one on a punt return). He became the first Cowboys rookie to score three times in a game since Julius Jones. His 93-yard punt return for a score was the second-longest in Cowboys history and his five total touchdowns current ties him for the most among NFL rookies with Jahvid Best. Bryant was limited in practice Wednesday with an ankle injury, but he is not expected to sit out Week 8.
Analysis: The Cowboys are going to be without their top gun slinger against the Jaguars and you can bet that is going to mean more running and fewer opportunities for the receivers. We completely understand your trepidation on that regard. What you might be forgetting is that Kitna is a veteran and has already shown a rapport with the rookie Bryant. Plus, the Jaguars are terrible against wideouts. No team is allowing more Fantasy points per game to opposing receivers than are the Jaguars at 29 points per contest. An opposing WR has recorded at least one touchdown in every game against Jacksonville this season and the team has allowed a total of 12 in seven games. Just last week Dwayne Bowe got into the end zone twice against the team from north Florida. Bryant's time could be right now and we like him for use in most leagues as a No. 2 Fantasy WR.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant had a breakout performance in Week 7 against the Giants. The rookie returned a 93-yard punt for a touchdown in the second quarter and added a pair of 15-yard touchdown strikes late in the game to finish with three touchdowns in the 41-35 loss. Both of his touchdown receptions came from QB Jon Kitna after starter Tony Romo left in the first half with a broken collarbone. Bryant's punt return for a touchdown was the second-longest in franchise history behind Dennis Morgan's 98-yard return in 1974. "Dez is a spectacular player," head coach Wade Phillips said. "I think everyone can see that." Bryant finished the game with four catches on seven targets for 54 yards in the defeat.
Analysis: Bryant was probable with an ankle injury entering Week 7 but he showed no ill signs of it as he had his best game as a pro. He looked explosive on his punt return and broke a couple of tackles on his way to his touchdown catches. He actually saw more passes thrown his way after Romo was forced from the game but having Kitna as the starter in Dallas is definitely a downgrade. On the plus side though, Bryant's has had success making plays after the catch so having Kitna throwing his way might not be so bad. Fantasy owners were waiting for the 21-year-old to have a game like this and hopefully he can take this performance forward into Week 8 against the Jaguars. Jacksonville ranks 27th in the league against the pass so consider Bryant as someone to look at in most leagues next Sunday.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant (ankle) was listed as active for Week 7 against the Giants after missing a day of practice in the week leading up to Monday night. New York ranks seventh in the league against the pass and have given up an average of 17.67 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts through the first six games.
Analysis: Bryant is definitely far healthier for Week 7 than he was for Week 6 when he caught just one pass for 31 yards. Of course, that catch was a touchdown so Fantasy owners who started him weren't completely upset by his lack of touches. That TD was his first as a pro. Bryant remains pretty much the fourth passing option in the Cowboys air attack, and until that changes he will remain just a flex option in deeper Fantasy formats.
News: Dallas wide receiver Dez Bryant participated in his first full practice in two weeks on Saturday, reports the Dallas Morning News. Bryant is officially listed as probable for Monday night's game against the division-rival New York Giants. Bryant has been bothered by a right ankle sprain but that injury seems to have subsided.
Analysis: Bryant is definitely far healthier for Week 7 than he was for Week 6 when he caught just one pass for 31 yards. Of course, that catch was a touchdown so Fantasy owners who started him weren't completely upset by his lack of touches. That TD was his first as a pro. The Giants rank seventh in the league against the pass and have given up an average of 17.67 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts through the first six games. Bryant remains pretty much the fourth passing option in the Cowboys air attack, and until that changes he will remain just a flex option in deeper Fantasy formats.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant was back at practice on Friday after missing Thursday's session despite an ankle injury. Although he was listed as limited, he appeared to be a full participant in practice. The Cowboys are preparing for the Giants in Week 7, on Monday Night. Bryant missed all three workouts heading into Week 6 with rib and ankle injuries.
Analysis: Bryant caught only one pass in a Week 6 loss to the Vikings, but it did go for a 31-yard touchdown, his first as a pro. The Giants rank seventh in the league against the pass and have given up an average of 17.67 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts through the first six games. Bryant remains pretty much the fourth passing option in the Cowboys air attack, and until that changes he will remain just a flex option in deeper Fantasy formats.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant did not practice on Thursday due to an ankle injury, although he did practice (unofficially) on Wednesday. Bryant took his pads out to the practice field Thursday but spent the early part of the session with a trainer. The Cowboys are preparing for the Giants in Week 7, on Monday Night. Bryant missed all three workouts heading into Week 6 with rib and ankle injuries.
Analysis: Bryant caught only one pass in a Week 6 loss to the Vikings, but it did go for a 31-yard touchdown, his first as a pro. The Giants rank seventh in the league against the pass and have given up an average of 17.67 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts through the first six games. Bryant remains pretty much the fourth passing option in the Cowboys air attack, and until that changes he will remain just a flex option in deeper Fantasy formats.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant practiced Wednesday after missing all three workouts heading into Week 6 with rib and ankle injuries. The Cowboys host the Giants on Monday Night Football in Week 7.
Analysis: Bryant caught only one pass in a Week 6 loss to the Vikings, but it did go for a 31-yard touchdown, his first as a pro. Bryant remains pretty much the fourth passing option in the Cowboys air attack, and until that changes he will remain just a flex option in deeper Fantasy formats.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant scored his first offensive touchdown of the season in Week 6 against the Vikings. Bryant was on the receiving end of a 31-yard strike from Tony Romo in the fourth quarter to tie the score at 21. It was his only reception of the game.
Analysis: Bryant only caught one pass on Sunday, but it was a big one as the rookie finally found the end zone. He has showed flashes of his talents over the first few weeks of the season, but had really only been able to contribute on special teams. While it was nice to finally see him get on the score sheet, Bryant still has only four receptions over his last two games and has been dealing with a few nagging injuries. He also has to compete with Miles Austin, Roy E. Williams and Jason Witten for receptions, which is limiting his Fantasy value. Maybe this touchdown can get him going, but Fantasy owners may want to hold off on starting him until he produces more consistently. Consider him a low-end No. 4 Fantasy WR at best, heading into Week 7.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant (ribs, ankle) has officially been ruled active for Week 6 against the Vikings. Bryant was held out of practice this week, but was ruled active after working out prior to Sunday's game. He has been targeted 26 times this season and has 17 receptions for 180 yards, but has yet to score an offensive touchdown.
Analysis: The ankle that Bryant re-injured Week 5 was the same ankle he had problems with during training camp that caused him to miss most of the preseason. However, he suit up on Sunday, but faces a Vikings team that ranks sixth in pass defense. Consider Bryant a low-end No. 4 Fantasy WR for Week 6 at Minnesota because he still must compete with Miles Austin, Roy E. Williams and Jason Witten for receptions.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant has officially been ruled active for Week 6 against the Vikings. Bryant has been dealing with a rib and ankle injury and was held out of practice this week. Bryant has been targeted 26 times this season and has 17 receptions for 180 yards, but has yet to score an offensive touchdown.
Analysis: The ankle that Bryant re-injured Week 5 was the same ankle he had problems with during training camp that caused him to miss most of the preseason. However, he suit up on Sunday. Consider Bryant a low-end No. 4 Fantasy WR for Week 6 at Minnesota because he still must compete with Miles Austin, Roy E. Williams and Jason Witten for receptions.
News: NFL.com is reporting Cowboys WR Dez Bryant (ribs, ankle) will play in the Week 6 matchup at Minnesota. He was held out of practice all week in preparation for the Vikings, who sport the NFL's 6th best pass defense, allowing just 185 yards per game. Bryant is still bothered by a right ankle sprain that kept him out for more than a month in training camp. Bryant has been targeted 26 times this season and has 17 receptions for 180 yards, but has yet to score an offensive touchdown.
Analysis: The ankle that Bryant re-injured Week 5 was the same ankle he had problems with during training camp that caused him to miss most of the preseason. Fantasy owners should still be concerned for the time being, so monitor his status on Sunday to see if he's active. If he can play on Sunday, consider Bryant a low-end No. 4 Fantasy WR for Week 6 at Minnesota because he still must compete with Miles Austin, Roy E. Williams and Jason Witten for receptions.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant (ribs, ankle) was held out of practice again on Friday and his chances to play in Week 6 at Minnesota are looking questionable at best. Bryant is still bothered by a right ankle sprain that kept him out for more than a month in training camp. Bryant has been targeted 26 times this season and has 17 receptions for 180 yards, but has yet to score an offensive touchdown.
Analysis: The ankle that Bryant re-injured Week 5 was the same ankle he had problems with during training camp that caused him to miss most of the preseason. Fantasy owners should be concerned for the time being, so monitor his status on Sunday to see if he's active. If he can play on Sunday, consider Bryant a low-end No. 4 Fantasy WR for Week 6 at Minnesota because he still must compete with Miles Austin, Roy E. Williams and Jason Witten for receptions.
News: According to the official Cowboys website, WR Dez Bryant (ribs, ankle) tried to practice Thursday but left midway through the session. Dallas visits Minnesota in Week 6.
Analysis: The ankle that Bryant re-injured Week 5 was the same ankle he had problems with during training camp that caused him to miss most of the preseason. Fantasy owners should be concerned for the time being, so monitor his status throughout the week to see if he can practice. If he can play on Sunday, consider Bryant a low-end No. 4 Fantasy WR for Week 6 at Minnesota because he still must compete with Miles Austin, Roy E. Williams and Jason Witten for receptions.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant (rib, ankle) was limited in Wednesday's practice as the team prepares for the Week 6 game at Minnesota. Bryant has been dealing with the rib issue for several weeks now but the ankle was re-aggravated in the Week 5 loss to the Titans. Earlier in the week, coach Wade Phillips said he expected Bryant to practice Wednesday.
Analysis: The ankle that Bryant re-injured Week 5 was the same ankle he had problems with during training camp that caused him to miss most of the preseason. Fantasy owners should be concerned for the time being, so monitor his status throughout the week to see if he can practice. If he can play on Sunday, consider Bryant a low-end No. 4 Fantasy WR for Week 6 at Minnesota because he still must compete with Miles Austin, Roy E. Williams and Jason Witten for receptions.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant was again not much of a factor in Week 5 against the Titans. Bryant was targeted six times in the 34-27 loss, but had just three receptions and for 22 yards. He also appeared to suffer an ankle injury late in the second quarter. Bryant limped off the field after getting tackled by Cortland Finnegan right before halftime, but returned to the game and played the entire second half. He also returned three punts for a combined 1 yard.
Analysis: The ankle that Bryant injured on Sunday was the same ankle he had problems with during training camp, so Fantasy owners might want to monitor his status over the week. He has been somewhat productive this season, but has yet to score an offensive touchdown and seems to getting dinged up a lot. Bryant has to compete with Miles Austin, Roy E. Williams and Jason Witten for receptions, which has limited his production thus far. Still, the rookie has a ton of potential and should get better as the season progresses. However, Fantasy owners may want to hold off on starting him, until he starts producing a bit more. Consider Bryant a low-end No. 4 Fantasy WR heading into Week 6 at Minnesota.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant was able to return during Week 5 against the Titans after suffering an apparent ankle injury. Bryant limped off the field late in the second quarter, but was back on the field for the start of the second half.
Analysis: Bryant had two catches for 17 yards in the first half and was back on the field for the Cowboys' first possession of the third quarter. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on him in the second half, but it appears he is OK. Stay tuned for more details when they become available.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant left Week 5 against the Titans after suffering an ankle injury. Bryant had his ankle rolled on by Cortland Finnegan in the second quarter. He limped off the field and his return is questionable.
Analysis: Bryant had two catches for 17 yards prior to sustaining the injury. Bryant's injured the same ankle that he hurt during the preseason. Fantasy owners should continue to check back for more details when they become available.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant has been ruled active for Week 5 against the Titans. Bryant, who played through a stress fracture in Week 3, was able to practice in full this week. He has 14 catches for 158 yards on the season.
Analysis: Bryant has shown flashes of his potential through his first three games, but is still looking for his first offensive touchdown. He faces a Titans' defense that has allowed 59 catches for 617 yards to WRs, but have allowed just one touchdown through the air all year. Consider him a No. 4 Fantasy WR or flex option against Tennessee.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant, who played through a stress fracture in his ribs in a Week 3 win over Houston, went through a full practice on Wednesday as the team prepares for Week 5 against the Titans. Bryant has managed at least 50 receiving yards in each of his first three NFL games. He looks to keep that streak alive in Week 5. "He's very, very explosive, and he's got great hands, and he's explosive as a returner," Titans coach Jeff Fisher said. "He had one punt return against the Bears; he's just a difference-maker out there." Tennessee has given up 59 catches for 617 yards to WRs, but have allowed just one touchdown. Six WRs -- Steve Smith (NYG), Mario Manningham, Hakeem Nicks, Brandon Lloyd, Eddie Royal and Jabar Gaffney -- have also managed 50 or more yards against Tennessee this season.
Analysis: It's only been a few games, but we can see the type of potential Bryant is going to bring to the Cowboys' passing game. The only knock against him is that he has been a bit fragile in his rookie season. He was injured for most of the preseason and has been banged up here early in the regular season, but at least he is playing through the pain. Bryant, who is still searching for his first touchdown, is surrounded by a lot of offensive weapons in Dallas, so he is more of a No. 4 Fantasy WR or flex option for Week 5. He is definitely fighting for his touches in Dallas.
News: ESPN reports that Cowboys rookie WR Dez Bryant played through a stress fracture in his ribs in a Week 3 win over Houston. Bryant finished the game with four catches for 50 yards, and was targeted six times
Analysis: With 14 catches for 158 yards, Bryant is off to a decent start in his rookie season. His wallet took a hit on Monday though, when his teammates racked up a $54,000 dinner tab on Bryant's dime. With Dallas off in Week 4, Bryant should obviously be benched in all formats for this week, and his owners should keep an eye on his practice situation heading into Week 5 against the Titans to see how he's healing up.
News: Dallas rookie WR Dez Bryant played well in Sunday's game at Houston in Week 3 despite being limited in practice all week with a rib injury. Bryant had four catches for 50 yards, and he was targeted six times. Bryant had a touchdown taken away when he was called for stepping out of bounds before coming back in and scoring, but it was the correct call. He also added one punt return for 12 yards. Bryant now has 14 catches for 158 yards in his first three games.
Analysis: Bryant continues to improve as his rookie year goes on, but he was outplayed in Sunday's game by Roy E. Williams (five catches for 117 yards and a touchdown). Still, Bryant is part of the mix for the Cowboys, and he has the chance to be a solid No. 3 Fantasy WR. Dallas is on a bye in Week 4 and faces Tennessee in Week 5, and Bryant is worth using as a No. 3 option in that matchup.
News: As expected, Dallas wide receiver Dez Bryant is active for the Week 3 game against the Houston Texans. Bryant is tied for third on the Cowboys with 14 targets in the pass-happy offense (99 pass attempts to 42 rush attempts). The matchup against Houston favors Bryant as the Texans have allowed more than 400 yards through the air in each of their first two games.
Analysis: The Texans have allowed four WRs to rack up at least 88 yards in just two games, including Indianapolis' No. 3 WR Austin Collie, who exploited the secondary for 163 yards and a touchdown. Bryant has 10 catches for 108 yards in his first two games as a pro, and he scored his first TD in Week 2 on a 62 yard punt return. Consider Bryant as a No. 3 Fantasy WR or as a flex option for Week 3.
News: Cowboys rookie WR Dez Bryant (ribs) has practiced more each day this week and is officially listed as probable in Week 3 against the Texans. According to the injury report, Bryant missed Wednesday’s practice, saw limited action Thursday and had a full practice on Friday. Bryant is tied for third on the team with 14 targets on the Cowboys pass-happy offense (99 pass attempts to 42 rush attempts). Bryant said the rib injury should not keep him out against Houston, a matchup that favors Dallas’ passing attack. The Texans have allowed more than 400 yards through the air in each of their first two games.
Analysis: All signs point to Bryant not only playing Week 3 at Houston, but playing well despite the rib injury. The Texans have allowed four WRs to rack up at least 88 yards in just two games, including Indianapolis' No. 3 WR Austin Collie, who exploited the secondary for 163 yards and a touchdown. Bryant has 10 catches for 108 yards in his first two games as a pro, and he scored his first TD in Week 2 on a 62 yard punt return. Consider Bryant as a No. 3 Fantasy WR or as a flex option for Week 3.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports that Cowboys rookie WR Dez Bryant had hoped to take part in a full practice Thursday but was limited for the second straight day with a rib injury. Bryant was listed as out for Wednesday's practice, but coach Wade Phillips said Bryant took part in part of the session. Bryant said it should not keep him from playing Sunday against Houston, and this is a good matchup for him. Bryant has a good matchup this week against the Texans. Houston has been burned for 564 yards and two touchdowns by wide receivers this season. They have given up one 100-yard game (Austin Collie) to a receiver and allowed two receivers (Collie and Santana Moss) to total 10 or more catches. Also, four opposing receivers have been targeted 10 or more times (Collie, Moss, Reggie Wayne and Pierre Garcon) against the Texans this season.
Analysis: We like Bryant as a sleeper this week as long as he's 100 percent healthy. Continue to monitor his status, but plan on using Bryant as a flex option or No. 3 WR in all formats. Bryant only has 10 catches in his first two games this year, but he's ready for a big performance, which could come in this matchup against the Texans.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant was held out of most of Wednesday's practice with sore ribs. ESPN.com reports Bryant complained of soreness following the special teams portion of practice, so coach Wade Phillips kept him out the rest of the day. Phillips believe Bryant, who sustained in the injury in Week 1 against the Redskins, will play Week 3 against the Texans.
Analysis: Bryant has 10 catches in his first two NFL games, but he has made a bigger impact on special teams. Although, we do applaud Bryant for his hard work after missing most of the preseason with an ankle injury. The Texans have been burned by receivers for 564 yards and two touchdowns this season. Consider Bryant a No. 3 Fantasy WR or flex option for Week 3.
News: Dallas WR Dez Bryant has been a major cog in the offense in two straight games to open his career. Bryant, in a loss to the Bears Week 2, did his damage in the return game. He took a punt 62 yards to the house as he tip-toed down the sidelines and passed Bears defenders on his way with his speed. Bryant also caught two passes for 52 yards.
Analysis: Bryant now has 10 receptions in his NFL career for 108 yards and has a return touchdown to his name. He has definitely been an exciting player for the Cowboys after two games but Dallas has yet to win with him on the roster. Still, it is clear that he's becoming a favorite of quarterback Tony Romo. He can see use as a No. 3 Fantasy WR for Week 3 at Houston. That game should prove high-scoring and Bryant could come up with his first offensive touchdown.
News: It was obvious to anyone watching the Week 1 game against the Redskins, Dallas QB Tony Romo was looking in Dez Bryant's direction. The rookie was targeted a team-high 12 times against the Redskins. That said, Bryant caught eight passes for 56 yards without a score while it was Miles Austin who topped the century mark and found pay dirt. Bryant and the Cowboys head home to face Chicago Week 2. The Bears held Detroit's wide receiving crew to just six catches for 88 yards without a score Week 1. Calvin Johnson got the bulk of that production as Detroit's top option in the passing game.
Analysis: While the Cowboys definitely want to get Bryant involved in the passing game, the rookie is still behind Roy Williams and Austin on the depth chart. Austin is still the top wideout on the team and if anyone is going to produce against the Bears, it will be him. With Bryant getting so many targets Week 1, however, we do believe Dallas is going to look his way again. They will be playing all out, not wanting to start the season with two losses, and Bryant should be viable as a low-end No. 2 or top-end No. 3 Fantasy WR for Week 2.
News: Cowboys rookie WR Dez Bryant didn't play at all this preseason because of a high ankle sprain, but that didn't mean the Cowboys were at all tentative about using him Week 1 at Washington. They went to him on two of their first four passing plays and a team-high 12 times total. He hauled in eight of those passes for 56 yards.
Analysis: Bryant's yards-per-catch average was nothing to write home about, but the Cowboys threw him a few wide receiver screens early, skewing that number a bit. The fact of the matter is they clearly want him to be a big part of the offense, targeting him even more than leading receiver Miles Austin -- and that was without him ever playing a professional down. He had a couple of rookie miscues, as you might expect, but his talent was apparent also. Now that the Cowboys have made his role clear, he's well worth owning in all Fantasy leagues. His numbers should only improve from here, and he might even be worth starting as a low-end No. 2 Fantasy WR against the Bears in Week 2.
News: Cowboys rookie WR Dez Bryant, who didn't play at all this preseason because of a high ankle sprain, has a good chance of playing some Week 1 at Washington, but he might struggle against a team that ranked ninth against the pass last season, averaging 207.2 yards per game, and fifth against the pass this preseason, averaging 175.8 yards per game.
Analysis: Even if Bryant does get on the field Sunday, he likely wouldn't play enough to make a significant impact. He's young, after all, and his preaseason injury cost him some on-the-job learning. "For any younger player, when you don’t play in the preseason it could be a factor," said wide receiver coach Ray Sherman on Monday. Bryant has the size and skills to become an impact player in Fantasy, but the Cowboys will probably bring him along slowly. You shouldn't expect to use him any of the first few weeks of the season.
News: Dallas rookie wide receiver Dez Bryant did not get any time in the preseason and that could hurt him, at least early in the year. "For any younger player, when you don’t play in the preseason it could be a factor," said wide receiver coach Ray Sherman on Monday. "I think as he gets going and gets that first hit, I think he’ll be fine.” Bryant wants nothing more than to get on the field against the Redskins in Week 1 on Sunday night. “I’m excited for him because he’s got a chance to get on the field," Sherman said. "But I have to keep him calm because he’s biting at the bit to play.”
Analysis: Bryant will need time to get into game shape, not to mention get more comfortable with the Cowboys' offense. It might be a couple of weeks before he can contribute to the team, making him no better than a reserve Fantasy WR for now.
News: Cowboys Owner/GM Jerry Jones told reporters on Wednesday that rookie WR Dez Bryant will not play against the Dolphins Thursday. Bryant (high-ankle sprain) returned to practice for the first time in a month on Tuesday but the team remains cautious about Bryant in game action.
Analysis: Bryant will need time to get into game shape, not to mention get more comfortable with the Cowboys' offense. It might be a couple of weeks before he can contribute to the team, making him no better than a reserve Fantasy WR for now. He's worth a late-round pick in drafts.
News: Cowboys rookie WR Dez Bryant returned to practice in full pads Tuesday for the first time since the high-ankle sprain injury he sustained July 30. Bryant is hopeful to play Thursday against Miami. Coach Wade Phillips said a decision hasn’t been made.
Analysis: It took Bryant a month to recover from this injury, so it might take him a while to get back into game shape. With his hamstring injury, flare up regarding rookie hazing and now this ankle injury, Bryant hasn't had the best of first professional camps. Still,he's a talented youngster and has the skills to contribute with Dallas in 2010. Continue to draft him as a middle- to late-round pick in seasonal formats, a little higher in dynasty/keeper leagues and a late first-round pick in rookie-only drafts.
News: Cowboys head coach Wade Phillips said rookie receiver Dez Bryant has been cleared to practice but may not play Thursday. Bryant suffered a high-ankle sprain in a late-June practice and missed all of the preseason. There's no word on whether or not he'll play in the team's preseason finale against the Dolphins.
Analysis: It looks like Bryant will be OK for the start of the regular season, which is a nice plus. One issue: Is he in game shape? If he rested his ankle for much of the last month, then chances are he won't be in peak condition and might need a week or two to get there. We like him as a solid reserve Fantasy receiver based on his upside and the explosiveness of the Cowboys passing game. Consider him with a middle- to late-round pick in seasonal formats, a little higher in dynasty/keeper leagues and a late first-round pick in rookie-only drafts.
News: The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reported on Sunday that Cowboys rookie receiver Dez Bryant (ankle) has been cleared to play in Thursday's preseason finale against the Dolphins.
Analysis: Bryant will play on Thursday and, barring any setbacks, will be ready to begin his NFL career in Week 1 against the Redskins. That said, he will have some work to do on Thursday and in practice to familiarize himself with the offense and Tony Romo. He is likely to be the team's No. 3 wideout to open the year and that could make him productive enough for use as a No. 4 Fantasy WR. He could end up being a nice sleeper when all is said and done.
News: Cowboys rookie WR Dez Bryant did not play in Saturday's game against the Texans due to an ankle injury, but could return before Week 1. The first-round draft pick has yet to play this preseason, but he ran routes at full speed prior to the game, something he hadn't done so far in his rehab from the high-ankle sprain injury. Owner Jerry Jones told the Dallas Morning News that Bryant could play in Thursday's finale against the Dolphins. "He'll be able to play. Physically he will be ready to go," Jones said. "It's a question of if it's worth some of the risk. If we end up playing our regulars then that might make a difference. We might have thought differently if he had been out there without a full set of our players, but that might be something we'd consider since there's a chance our starters are out there."
Analysis: Bryant is making progress and he appears to be on target to be ready for Week 1. The missed time will hurt him but he'll still likely end up the Cowboys' third wideout for 2010. However, his potential in such a good offense makes Bryant a candidate to be as productive as a No. 4 WR in Fantasy. He could end up being a nice sleeper when all is said and done.
News: The Dallas Cowboys rookie receiver Dez Bryant is expected to miss Saturday's preseason game against the Texans. Bryant, who has been battling an ankle injury for much of training camp, has been ruled out for the game at Houston. Bryant ran and cut Monday for the first time since the injury. He also went over routes on the field with receiver coach Ray Sherman before practice, then afterward with offensive coordinator Jason Garrett. "I feel great," said Bryant, adding that he's dropped 10 pounds through the rehabilitation drills, taking him to 213. His preferred playing weight is 214. Bryant is so eager to play that he came out to the practice field wearing game pants. "I know I'll be practicing sooner or later, so I just wanted to get the feel," he said. "I just look at the big picture. That's how I keep myself calm."
Analysis: Bryant is expected to do big things for the Cowboys this season as a rookie, but he needs to get on the field first. Bryant is definitely losing value the longer he sits out with the injury. Still, he is nearing a return and hopefully will play in the final preseason game after sitting out Saturday. Bryant's potential in such a good offense makes him a candidate to be as productive as a No. 4 WR in Fantasy. This makes him a sleeper for late in drafts.
News: Following Wednesday's afternoon practice, Cowboys WR Dez Bryant (ankle) spent about 30 minutes working on the field alone with offensive coordinator Jason Garrett. Garrett called plays and watched as Bryant lined up for routes. "He wanted to make sure I was on top of my game and that I've been in my playbook," Bryant told the Dallas Morning News. "He just wants to know I had everything down." Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said this past Saturday that there is a possibility Bryant could return to action and play in the team's last two preseason games.
Analysis: Bryant had his walking boot removed just days ago and seems to be making steady progress in his recovery. The Cowboys were expecting big things out of him this season, possibly even for him to challenge Roy Williams for a starting job. But not practicing has stunted his development, and Bryant should now be considered their third wideout for 2010. His potential in such a good offense makes Bryant a candidate to be as productive as a No. 4 WR in Fantasy. This makes him a sleeper for late in drafts.
News: Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said Saturday that there is a possibility WR Dez Bryant (ankle) could return to action and play in the last two preseason games. Bryant suffered a high-ankle sprain July 30 and is out of the walking boot he donned since the injury. "He's doing well and we expected him to do well, by the way," Jones said. "We had expectations, and I am hopeful we will have him back for those last two preseason games." Bryant was doing aerobic work on Saturday like "a little power walk" on a treadmill and some rehabilitative exercises. "I felt pain free," he said. "I hope they have something harder for me because what I'm doing now is kind of light. ... The only thing that's hard about it is just watching the other guys run routes, knowing I can't be out there to help."
Analysis: Bryant was cleared by doctors Friday to remove the walking boot and appears to be making steady progress. The Cowboys were expecting big things out of him this season, possibly even for him to challenge Roy Williams for a starting job. But not practicing stunted his development, and Bryant should now be considered their third wideout for 2010. However, his potential in such a good offense makes Bryant a candidate to be as productive as a No. 4 WR in Fantasy. He could end up being a nice sleeper when all is said and done.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant was cleared by doctors Friday to remove the walking boot protecting his high-ankle sprain, according to the Dallas Morning News. He is scheduled to begin a rehabilitation program on Saturday. Fellow wideout Miles Austin said Bryant kept himself busy while unable to practice by studying the offense. "You can tell he's coming along," Austin reported. "He's getting it. He's definitely focused on the offense now, picking up the small caveats and different things." "I think definitely, once he gets back he'll know a lot of the offense."
Analysis: Bryant is making progress after a disappointing injury early in camp. The Cowboys were expecting big things out of him this season, possibly even for him to challenge Roy Williams for a starting job. But not practicing stunted his development, and Bryant should now be considered their third wideout for 2010. However, his potential in such a good offense makes Bryant a candidate to be as productive as a No. 4 WR in Fantasy. He could end up being a nice sleeper when all is said and done.
News: Cowboys rookie WR Dez Bryant is still wearing the walking boot for the high-ankle sprain he suffered on July 30. He will likely wear the boot for at least another week, and he isn't expected to return to practice until the last week of August, at the earliest.
Analysis: The Cowboys were expecting big things out of Bryant this season, possibly even for him to challenge Roy Williams for the starting job opposite of Miles Austin. But this setback will surely stunt his development, and Bryant should now be considered their third wideout for 2010. However, his potential in such a good offense makes Bryant a candidate to be as productive as a No. 4 WR in Fantasy. He could end up being a nice sleeper when all is said and done.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant wasn't in uniform for Sunday's preseason opener against the Bengals as he continues to recover from a high ankle sprain. However, Bryant told NFL.com that he believes he is ahead of schedule from his initial diagnosis of 4-6 weeks. “There’s no telling for sure,” Bryant said, “but I think it might even be sooner than that. It’s coming along pretty good.”
Analysis: Bryant was on the field prior to Sunday's game catching passes in a walking boot. He is itching to get back on the field, but you know Dallas won't take any chances with the first-round draft pick. It's good to hear Bryant is progressing well and could be ready for the start of the regular season. Bryant should still be an impact rookie in 2010, but view him more as a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy WR, worth drafting in the later rounds in seasonal Fantasy formats.
News: Cowboys QB Tony Romo is still counting on rookie WR Dez Bryant to be ready for the start of the season despite being out 4-6 weeks with an ankle injury. "We're lucky it's just a high ankle sprain and not something more severe," Romo said. "But he'll be back, and he'll be ready to go. He's a hard-working kid, and he'll be ready." Despite a protective boot on his right foot, Bryant was still able to catch a few balls from receivers coach Ray Sherman while standing on the sideline as practice got started Monday. Once drills got under way, the Dallas Cowboys' first-round pick was an observer watching with Sherman or another coach while the offense went through its plays.
Analysis: Continue to monitor what happens with Bryant and hope he is back by Week 1 of the regular season. Bryant could still be an impact rookie in 2010, but view him more as a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy WR, worth drafting in the later rounds in seasonal Fantasy formats. In rookie-only leagues, Bryant is worth a first-round pick.
News: Cowboys offensive coordinator Jason Garrett didn't speculate much on Sunday on WR Dez Bryant's chances to play Week 1 (Sept. 12) in Washington. Bryant is sidelined 4-6 weeks after injuring his ankle on Friday. "We have no idea," Garrett said. "We focus on the process and the approach, and his approach is to make sure he gets all of his treatments taken care of."
Analysis: If Bryant is back closer to the four-week timeline, then he will have some time before the Week 1 opener to get ready. But we also wouldn't be surprised with the depth Dallas has at wide receiver if they take it easy with the rookie since they need him for the long haul. Bryant could still be an impact rookie in 2010, but view him more as a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy WR, worth drafting in the later rounds in seasonal Fantasy formats.
News: Cowboys rookie WR Dez Bryant injured his right ankle on the next to last play of Friday's workout and had to be helped off the field by the training staff. He was taken to a local hospital for an MRI and was diagnosed with a high ankle sprain. He is expected to miss four to six weeks. Bryant got hurt after colliding with Orlando Scandrick on the second to last play of practice.
Analysis: This certainly was not what the Cowboys envisioned after Bryant fell into their laps with the 24th pick of the first round. He has plenty of promise and was expected to challenge for a starting job ahead of veteran Roy Williams, but with this injury setting back his development, Bryant will likely be the No. 3 receiver for the Cowboys, which makes him a No. 4 Fantasy option. If healthy, he's worth a late-round pick in all seasonal leagues, and he should be drafted with a first-round pick in rookie-only formats.
News:Dez Bryant was more than on time for the start of the Dallas Cowboys training camp. The first-round pick was the first player on the field Saturday. Wearing the No. 88 jersey assigned to him right after being drafted, Bryant emerged from the Alamodome tunnel about 45 minutes before the start of the Cowboys' first workout. The receiver from Oklahoma State then caught passes from undrafted rookie quarterback Matt Nichols. Bryant had alleviated any concern about him missing any workouts when he agreed to terms of a five-year contract even before getting to San Antonio. He signed it after he arrived for the NFL's longest full-squad camp this year. "I'm going to use the phrase, not on time, before time," Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said Friday while commending Bryant and his agent, Eugene Parker, for getting the deal done. "They both knew that this thing was important to set a tone, set an impression. ... Boy, that's a good sign."
Analysis: Another impressive cue came Saturday with his early arrival on the field. Bryant acknowledged the growing crowd with a wave and then ran a variety of routes long before Tony Romo and the rest of the Cowboys came out of the locker room. Once practice got started, an opening workout without pads, Bryant made several acrobatic and one-handed catches in drills without defenders. On one sideline route, he reached back with his left hand to make the grab, then managed to stay inbounds. These positive reports mean Bryant has the chance to make an impact right away and should be considered a low-end No. 3/high-end No. 4 Fantasy WR in seasonal leagues worth a late-round pick. He is worth a first-round pick in rookie-only leagues.
News: The Dallas Cowboys and rookie WR Dez Bryant have agreed to the terms of a contract. The Cowboys announced the deal in a news release Thursday, a day before they report to training camp in San Antonio. The first workout is Saturday. Details of the deal weren't immediately available. Bryant was an All-American in 2008 at Oklahoma State, hauling in 87 receptions for 1,480 yards and 19 touchdowns. He missed most of last season due to suspension.
Analysis: Bryant will report to training camp on time and hopefully the tight hamstring that bothered him during minicamp doesn't prevent him from getting busy immediately. He has the chance to make an impact right away and should be considered a low-end No. 3/high-end No. 4 Fantasy WR in seasonal leagues worth a late-round pick. He is worth a first-round pick in rookie-only leagues.
News: The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports that Cowboys rookie WR Dez Bryant could be under contract soon even if he misses the start of training camp Saturday. His agent, Eugene Parker, does not expect a lengthy holdout even if Bryant does not report on time. "We are going to work to get it done as soon as possible," Parker said. "They want it done. We want it done."
Analysis: We hope Bryant signs soon and is able to report to training camp without missing too much time. Bryant has the chance to make an impact right away and should be considered a low-end No. 3/high-end No. 4 Fantasy WR in seasonal leagues worth a late-round pick. He is worth a first-round pick in rookie-only leagues.
News: Cowboys rookie WR Dez Bryant spent the morning practice of minicamp Friday working with trainers because of left hamstring tightness. But he was able to return in the afternoon and go through drills. "I need to be out there getting the reps," Bryant said in the Dallas Morning News. "Actually doing the reps is better than mental reps." Bryant is expected to be fine for the start of training camp.
Analysis: Bryant should be 100 percent for the start of training camp, but this is an injury worth keeping an eye on. We like Bryant to play well this year as the No. 3 WR for the Cowboys behind Miles Austin and Roy E. Williams. He is worth a late-round pick in seasonal leagues and a first-round pick in rookie-only formats.
News: Rookie WR Dez Bryant did not participate in Wednesday's OTA practice after missing most of Tuesday with hamstring tightness. While Bryant was more of a spectator Tuesday, he worked with the assistant trainer to rehab the injury Wednesday. Bryant said he's not concerned by the minor injuries that have added up in the last month. "It's all about getting back and being right by the time the season starts," he said. "It's better to be cautious now."
Analysis: Hopefully we're not seeing that Bryant is injury prone, and continue to monitor his hamstring heading into training camp. Bryant has had minor injuries with his ankle, a hip pointer, a stomach virus that caused him to miss a day of practice and now the hamstring tightness. Bryant has a chance to be the No. 1 rookie WR. He will share targets with Miles Austin, Roy E. Williams and Jason Witten, and even Patrick Crayton returned to practice Tuesday, but Bryant will still see his share of targets. Plan on drafting Bryant with a late-round pick in seasonal leagues, but his value is higher in rookie-only drafts and keeper formats.
News: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant was held out for most of Tuesday's practice with a tight left hamstring. The rookie worked on individual drills for about 20 minutes before being treated. He was advised to rest, although he stayed close to the team huddle for the remainder of practice. Bryant said he hopes to be ready for Wednesday's OTA session. So far this offseason, Bryant has had minor injuries with his ankle, a hip pointer, a stomach virus that caused him to miss a day of practice and now the hamstring tightness. "I started to work out and let (the trainer) know it was tight. He didn't want to take any chances," Bryant said. "It's not frustrating at all. I'm just following orders."
Analysis: Hopefully we're not seeing that Bryant is injury prone, and continue to monitor his hamstring heading into training camp. Bryant has a chance to be the No. 1 rookie WR. He will share targets with Miles Austin, Roy E. Williams and Jason Witten, and even Patrick Crayton returned to practice Tuesday, but Bryant will still see his share of targets. Plan on drafting Bryant with a late-round pick in seasonal leagues, but his value is higher in rookie-only drafts and keeper formats.
News: So far, Cowboys rookie WR Dez Bryant is living up to expectations. He's already working out with the first team Tuesday during OTA workouts, getting passes thrown his way in a three-receiver alignment alongside Miles Austin and Roy E. Williams, plus Jason Witten. "It's crazy - just a lot of weapons at one time on the field," Bryant said. "It's going to be hard to stop. ... It's exciting to be able to be out there with those guys. I felt like coach put me out there for a reason. They're trying to get me to learn everything as soon as possible. I'm doing a good job and it's just great."
Analysis: Bryant comes into the season with the chance to be the No. 1 rookie WR. He will share targets with Austin, Williams and Witten, but Bryant will still see his share of targets. Plan on drafting Bryant with a late-round pick in seasonal leagues, but his value is higher in rookie-only drafts and keeper formats.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports that Cowboys WR Roy E. Williams told a local radio station in Dallas that rookie WR Dez Bryant continues to look impressive in OTA workouts. "He's going to be a great talent for this organization," Williams said. "When they picked him, our wide receiving corps got better, I got better and the team got better. It was a great pick up for us, and I would say it was a great steal for us. He's a Top 5 talent, in my opinion. So, for us to pick him up is huge for us and seeing him out on the football field: he's eager to learn, he's out there making plays and the quarterback has confidence in him. He's going to be good, he's going to be a good one."
Analysis: We like Bryant as well, but he's not going to make an immediate impact as a rookie with Austin, Jason Witten and Williams also on the roster. At best, consider drafting Bryant with a late-round pick in seasonal leagues. In keeper and rookie-only drafts, however, Bryant has significantly more value since he could end up pairing with Austin in the future as a starting receiver for the Cowboys.
News: Cowboys rookie WR Dez Bryant returned to practice on Wednesday after missing on Tuesday with a stomach virus. That is about the only thing to slow down the first-round draft pick, who has been rather impressive in every practice so far.
Analysis: Good news -- a healthy Bryant is a productive Bryant. He comes into the season with the chance to be the No. 1 rookie WR in all of Fantasy. He will share work with Miles Austin, Roy E. Williams and Jason Witten, but Bryant will still see plenty of targets, specifically because it will be hard for defenses to properly cover all of Dallas' talented receivers. Plan on drafting Bryant with a middle- to late-round pick in seasonal leagues, but his value is higher in rookie-only drafts (first-round pick) and keeper formats (mid-round pick).
News: The Dallas Morning News reports that Cowboys rookie WR Dez Bryant missed Tuesday's OTA workout because of an illness, but owner Jerry Jones said Bryant is expected to be back at Wednesday's workout. Jones said Bryant was also ill during Monday's workout. "The trainers who saw him told him to stay home," Jones said.
Analysis: We expect Bryant to be fine, and he should be ready for the start of training camp. Bryant comes into the season with the chance to be the No. 1 rookie WR. He will share targets with Miles Austin, Roy E. Williams and Jason Witten, but Bryant will still see his share of targets. Plan on drafting Bryant with a late-round pick in season leagues, but his value is higher in rookie-only drafts and keeper formats.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports that Cowboys rookie WR Dez Bryant continues to make strides with each offseason workout. In his second OTA workout Monday, Bryant felt good. "Every day gets easier and easier," Bryant said. "I feel comfortable. I get along with the guys very well. It's exciting."
Analysis: We'll find out how Bryant fits in with the Cowboys, but he has limited Fantasy value in seasonal leagues. The Cowboys will get him on the field, but he will be low on the pecking order for targets behind Miles Austin and Jason Witten and perhaps even Roy E. Williams. At best, consider drafting Bryant with a late-round pick and hope he sees the field more as a receiver and less as a returner. In keeper and rookie-only drafts, however, Bryant has significantly more value since he could end up pairing with Austin in the future as a starting receiver for the Cowboys. He's a first-round pick in rookie-only drafts for sure.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports Cowboys WR Roy E. Williams is obviously motivated by rookie Dez Bryant, and he played that way during Monday's OTA workout. Williams impressed Dallas CB Mike Jenkins and all in attendance. "Roy came out on fire today," Jenkins said. "That's the best I've seen Roy since he got here. He looked like a No. 1 receiver." Williams has said he intended to keep his starting job. He punctuated his comments by saying he's a bad man and there "ain't no such thing" as him sitting on the bench. Jenkins also was impressed with Bryant. "I definitely agree with that pick," Jenkins said. "He's going to push everybody. He's going to push Miles [Austin]. He's going to push Roy to be a better receiver, and that's going to make him better because he's trying to catch up to those guys. He came out today with the right composure. ... "He has the ability to be a top receiver in the league."
Analysis: We like Bryant as well, but he's not going to make an immediate impact as a rookie with Austin, Jason Witten and Williams also on the roster, especially if Williams continue to look this way. At best, consider drafting Bryant with a late-round pick. In keeper and rookie-only drafts, however, Bryant has significantly more value since he could end up pairing with Austin in the future as a starting receiver for the Cowboys.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports when the Cowboys begin their organized team activities next week, QB Tony Romo will throw to rookie WR Dez Bryant for the first time. Romo is looking forward to working with the team's first-round pick. "For me, anytime you can add more weapons, it's a positive to the offensive unit," Romo said. "I'm anxious to see what level he's going to be able to play at. They say he is pretty natural catching the ball and does some good things. It's all a part of getting out there and seeing who is going to step up, who is going to play well and who is going to be ready to go."
Analysis: Big and strong, fast with good hands, Bryant has the potential to be another Michael Irvin in Dallas. He also could be another Antonio Bryant, a talented but temperamental player. We'll find out how Bryant fits in with the Cowboys, but he has limited Fantasy value in seasonal leagues. The Cowboys will get him on the field, but he will be low on the pecking order for targets behind Miles Austin and Jason Witten and perhaps even Roy E. Williams. At best, consider drafting Bryant with a late-round pick and hope he sees the field more as a receiver and less as a returner. In keeper and rookie-only drafts, however, Bryant has significantly more value since he could end up pairing with Austin in the future as a starting receiver for the Cowboys. He's a first-round pick in rookie-only drafts for sure.
News: The Sports Xchange reports Cowboys coach Wade Phillips is impressed with rookie WR Dez Bryant. Phillips said Bryant is the best looking rookie he has seen in his first minicamp in 33 years of coaching. "Dez Bryant is an absolute talent. You don't see that many come in and look that good that early," Phillips said. Dallas WR coach Ray Sherman, coached the likes Cris Carter and Randy Moss, said Bryant is in a class by himself. "He can do so many things," Sherman said. "He's a punt returner, he's a kickoff returner, he's a guy that is a tremendous athlete, a tremendous receiver; he catches the ball as well as anyone I've seen. I mean, you can try to compare him with people because they did some of those things, but this young man has the ability: he can utilize the quick twitch and has the speed to get downfield. He's a powerful guy and I think he's just different from anybody I've seen because I haven't seen a guy have all these type of qualities. He's the type of guy that will go inside, take a hit and break tackles."
Analysis: We like Bryant as well, but he's not going to make an immediate impact as a rookie with Miles Austin, Jason Witten and Roy E. Williams also on the roster. At best, consider drafting Bryant with a late-round pick. In keeper and rookie-only drafts, however, Bryant has significantly more value since he could end up pairing with Austin in the future as a starting receiver for the Cowboys.
News: The Dallas Morning News reports that Cowboys WR coach Ray Sherman wouldn't commit to rookie WR Dez Bryant being a starter in 2010. Dallas is projected to start Miles Austin and Roy Williams, but Bryant could be a factor with a strong offseason. "He's going to have a chance to compete and we will see," Sherman said. "Time will tell whether that will happen or not. He's a young man, and he's a first round pick, so we will want him on the field quickly."
Analysis: Our take is Austin and Williams will remain the starters with Bryant seeing plenty of time on the field as well. Bryant has minimal Fantasy value in 2010 in seasonal leagues. The Cowboys will get him on the field, but he will be low on the pecking order for targets behind Austin and Jason Witten and probably even Williams. At best, consider drafting Bryant with a late-round pick. In keeper and rookie-only drafts, however, Bryant has significantly more value since he could end up pairing with Austin in the future as a starting receiver for the Cowboys.
News: Cowboys rookie WR Dez Bryant struggled with his conditioning, and also slightly turned an ankle during the last few plays of Sunday's drills as part of the Cowboys' rookie minicamp. But Bryant also made some spectacular catches, although against defensive backs with no NFL experience. Nonetheless, head coach Wade Phillips came away impressed with his first-round pick. "Dez Bryant is an absolute talent," Phillips said. "You don't get to be around that many players that come in and look that good that early. ... He's pretty natural, got great body control, great hands, quickness, power and speed."
Analysis: Big and strong, fast with good hands, Bryant has the potential to be another Michael Irvin in Dallas. He also could be another Antonio Bryant, a talented but temperamental player. We'll find out how Bryant fits in with the Cowboys, but he has limited Fantasy value in seasonal leagues. The Cowboys will get him on the field, but he will be low on the pecking order for targets behind Miles Austin and Jason Witten and perhaps even Roy Williams. At best, consider drafting Bryant with a late-round pick and hope he sees the field more as a receiver and less as a returner. In keeper and rookie-only drafts, however, Bryant has significantly more value since he could end up pairing with Austin in the future as a starting receiver for the Cowboys. He's a first-round pick in rookie-only drafts for sure.
News: Once Dez Bryant was within reach, the Cowboys made sure they grabbed him. Just three spots from taking him at No. 27, the Cowboys made a deal with New England to snag the Oklahoma State receiver with top-15 talent but questions about his character. The 6-foot-2, 225-pound Bryant was an All-American in 2008 when he turned 87 receptions into 1,480 yards and 19 touchdowns. His stock slid after his suspension for lying to the NCAA about his activities with former NFL standout Deion Sanders, a suspension that kept him off the field nearly all of last season. There were other questions about him, such as being late to meetings and even games. Nobody questions his skills. Bryant's arrival means quarterback Tony Romo has another potentially dynamic receiver to go with returning Pro Bowler Miles Austin. It also likely means a lesser role for Roy Williams, who has been pretty much a bust since Dallas gave up several draft picks and a $45 million extension to get him from Detroit midway through the 2008 season. Jones insisted this pick was "more about what Bryant is than what Roy isn't." Coach Wade Phillips added that some rookie receivers are slow to adjust to the NFL, but he and Jones believe Bryant will make an impact right away as a punt returner. "He has a chance to be a game-changer," Jones said.
Analysis: Big and strong, fast with good hands, Bryant has the potential to be another Michael Irvin in Dallas. He also could be another Antonio Bryant, a talented but temperamental player who was dumped after throwing a sweaty jersey in the face of then-coach Bill Parcells. We'll find out how Bryant fits in with the Cowboys, but he has minimal Fantasy value in 2010 in seasonal leagues. The Cowboys will get him on the field, but he will be low on the pecking order for targets behind Austin and Jason Witten and probably even Williams. At best, consider drafting Bryant with a late-round pick and hope he sees the field more as a receiver and less as a return man. In keeper and rookie-only drafts, however, Bryant has significantly more value since he could end up pairing with Austin in the future as a starting receiver for the Cowboys.
