With the Baltimore Ravens roster gutted by COVID-19 positive cases and their close contacts, it’s not exactly a surprise that some of the players on the team’s practice squad will be getting elevated to the active roster before Tuesday’s game against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
One very notable player was given that opportunity on Saturday.
Wide receiver Dez Bryant announced on Twitter that the Ravens had officially signed him to their active roster from their practice squad, along with a photo of him signing his contract.
Officially signed to the 53… beyond thankful 🙏🏿 pic.twitter.com/BJeGDa10Yx
— Dez Bryant (@DezBryant) November 28, 2020
Bryant, 32, was signed to the Ravens’ practice squad on Oct. 27 after not having played in an NFL game since 2017. Bryant most notably spent eight seasons with the Dallas Cowboys from 2010-17, making three Pro Bowls.
He played in two games so far this season as a game-day activation from the practice squad and has made four catches for 28 yards. Now, Bryant will be a full-time member of the Ravens’ active roster.
The Ravens have not placed any wide receivers on the COVID-19 reserve list, with quarterbacks Lamar Jackson and Trace McSorley, running backs J.K. Dobbins and Mark Ingram, defensive tackles Justin Madubuike and Brandon Williams, outside linebacker Pernell McPhee, defensive ends Calais Campbell and Jihad Ward, offensive lineman Patrick Mekari and Matt Skura, fullback Patrick Ricard and long snapper Morgan Cox all inactive at this point.
Players that were placed on the COVID-19 list early in the week will have a chance to return before Tuesday’s games.