After several NFL suspensions, Martavis Bryant joins CFL

Mon, Jan 25, 2021
AP Sports

Martavis Bryant, the former Steelers and Raiders wide receiver suspended multiple times by the NFL for substance abuse violations, signed with the CFL's Toronto Argonauts.

The ex-Clemson star drew an indefinite suspension in 2018 while with Oakland. He has not played in the league since.

The NFL said at the time he violated terms of his conditional reinstatement from a previous ban under the league's substance abuse policy.

Bryant, while with Pittsburgh, was suspended for the 2016 season for multiple violations of the policy. He also drew a four-game suspension in 2015 for the same reason.

A fourth-round Steelers pick in 2014, the 29-year-old Bryant has 145 catches for 2,183 yards and 17 touchdowns in 44 career NFL games.

"He fits the mold of what we're looking for, but he can run, too," Argos coach Ryan Dinwiddie said. "I feel like the talent certainly is there.

"He has to learn the CFL game and I'm sure he's in great shape, but we have to get him into football shape."

The CFL plans to return in 2021 after canceling its 2020 season because of the pandemic.