Martavis Bryant reinstated by NFL

Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Martavis Bryant was conditionally reinstated by the NFL after being suspended last March for substance abuse violations.

Martavis Bryant, who was suspended by the NFL in 2016 for a minimum of one year following violation of the league’s substance abuse policy, was conditionally reinstated Tuesday afternoon by the NFL.  The Pittsburgh Steelers released this statement:

"“Martavis Bryant has followed the protocol and has been conditionally reinstated by the National Football League. We appreciate that he has taken the necessary steps in an effort to get his personal life in order. We also understand this is just the beginning as he works to return to the team and meet all of the conditions of his reinstatement.”“We look forward to working with Martavis to ensure that he is mentally and physically prepared to contribute to our efforts on the field, while also maintaining the proper balance to keep his life in order off the field.”"

As a part of Bryant’s conditional reinstatement he will be able to join the Steelers at their facility and participate in all offseason workouts and games.  Prior to Week 1 the NFL will review Bryant’s progress and make a decision on whether or not he will be allowed to participate in regular season activities.  Throughout the season, the NFL will keep track of Bryant and he will be evaluated for full reinstatement.

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Bryant had been a major factor in the Steelers passing attack before missing the entire 2016-2017 season.  There had been talk around the Steelers facility that they may have had to move on from Bryant and draft a playmaking receiver to complement Antonio Brown.  However, with the emergence of Sammie Coates as a deep threat last year and Eli Rogers becoming more comfortable in the slot the Steelers offense is looking increasingly dangerous.  Especially considering that they are likely now getting a top deep threat in the game back for the 2017-2018 campaign.