Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Martavis Bryant was forced to sit out the entire 2016 season due to a suspension for violating the leagues substance abuse policy, but hell be back in the mix this season.
The team announced on Tuesdaythat Bryant has been informed of his conditional reinstatement after following the necessary protocol to reach that point.
Via Steelers GM Kevin Colbert:
"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."
Bryant will be allowed to participate in all preseason activities, including practices and games, once his clinical resources have been confirmed in Pittsburgh. He might also attend team meetings and go through conditioning work at the Steelers facility.
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Before the season begins, the NFL will review Bryants progress. If hes complied and taken the necessary steps to clean up his personal life, hell be eligible to participate in Week 1. Hell also be reevaluated later in the season for full reinstatement.
This is a huge boost for the Steelers offense. The big-play threat will join the likes of Antonio Brown, Eli Rodgers and Sammie Coates in Pittsburghs wide receiving unit, which is now one of the best in the league.
The last time Bryant was active, he was highly effective. He caught 50 passes for 765 yards and six touchdowns in 11 games two seasons ago, proving to be a dangerous deep weapon for Ben Roethlisberger.
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