Earlier this year, former Clemson receiver Martavis Bryant signed a deal with the Toronto Argonauts of the Canadian Football League. He will also be playing in the Indoor Football League before heading up north after signing a deal with the Massachusetts Pirates.
“I’m excited to get into pads again and grateful to the Mass. Pirates for giving me this opportunity, and allowing me to come in and represent their organization in preparation of the CFL season,” Bryant said in a team news release. “I look forward to contributing any way I can. Big things are in store for the Pirates this year! I know a few of the players on the roster and am looking forward to stepping on the field with them.”
Bryant was drafted by the Steelers in the fourth round in the 2014 NFL Draft. He instantly made an impact in his rookie season with 26 receptions for 549 yards and eight touchdowns. His 21.1 yards per reception that year led the NFL and his six receiving touchdowns in his first four games was an NFL record at the time.
However, off field issues have plagued Bryant and he has not played in the NFL since 2018 because of an indefinite suspension for multiple drug policy violations.
After canceling the 2020 season due to the pandemic, the CFL plans to return in 2021. There have also been talks of the CFL merging with the XFL due to financial difficulties due to the pandemic.
