The Dallas Cowboys have had several players wear #88 over the years, most notably Drew Pearson and the legendary Michael Irvin. The next #88 might be poised to join their illustrious ranks. Dez Bryant, entering his fourth season in the NFL, is apparently in talks with the Cowboys per contract negotiations, as his rookie contract runs out after this season. Bryant was recently ranked the sixth best receiver in the league, and both parties hope he can be enticed to stay in Dallas, though the Cowboys' salary cap is reportedly strained. One thing's for sure; Michael Irvin is a big supporter of Bryant, and he is predicting a big year for the young star.
Bryant says that his focus is on the field, but he is looking forward to coming to an agreement (via Fansided):
"'It feels good to know that things are being talked about, but I'm going to let it take care of itself,' Bryant told ESPNDallas.com. 'I feel like as long as I take care of business on that field, the rest will be taken care of.'"
In addition to contract negotiations, Bryant also learned recently that his standing amongst his rather high, but he doesn't want it distracting from his game. At least he's got the legendary Michael Irvin cheering him on, though (via Dallas News Cowboys Blog):
"'I don't think about it,' Bryant said last month when asked if he measures himself against the league's top receivers. 'I'm a fan of a lot of these guys in the league. I'm just going to remain that way. I'm a huge fan of the NFL. I love the game. I love seeing other players make great plays ... except against us.'
"'Just a physically-gifted beast of a football player,' Irvin said of Bryant on the NFL Network. 'He's learning more and more about the game each year. He's getting better and better each year. I'm expecting that explosive year out of him this season.'"
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