Washington Redskins: The case for and against Dez Bryant

Ian’s case against Dez Bryant

So past accolades are nice. And so is flaunting the newest burgundy and gold Dez Bryant jersey to every Cowboys fan you know. But while there may be a compelling case to sign the veteran receiver, there are also just as many reasons to drop it (see what I did there?).

Sure, the last time the Washington Redskins signed a division rival at wide receiver, it worked out pretty well. But the last time they traded for a division rival quarterback, it… didn’t work out very well. The quarterback, who was old, and whose name rhymed with ‘Monovan McNabb’, couldn’t even maintain a starting role for an entire season.

The signing of Bryant is an entirely different notion than the signing of Jackson, and if we’re being honest, there are more similarities between Bryant’s possible acquisition and the acquisition of McNabb, than the team’s signing of DeSean Jackson.

DeSean Jackson was 28 years old when he signed with the Washington Redskins. Dez Bryant will be 30 years old later this year. DeSean Jackson was known for his ability to take the top off of a defense. He had a skill that the Washington Redskins needed in their receiving core.

To me, there doesn’t seem to be room for Bryant. Sure, Doctson has underwhelmed in his first two years, but he’s only 25 years old, with plenty of natural ability and time to grow. He deserves another shot as the No. 1 receiver, and there’s no way Paul Richardson, with his skill set, is losing the job on the other side. Crowder is manning the slot. Brian Quick is already penciled in as depth. Where will Dez Bryant be able to contribute in a way that warrants his potential $8 million salary?

Yes, Dez Bryant’s situation in Dallas has been far from ideal over the past three years. But no matter how many excuses we can make, the fact of the matter is this: Dez, much like Donovan McNabb so many years ago, is past his prime. His route tree has never been well-developed, and that will drive Jay Gruden crazy. Bryant has all the natural talent in the world. But time is not on his side. The Washington Redskins would be better off sticking with Robert Davis as he develops, or drafting a wide receiver on Day 2 or 3.

Next: Redskins 15 greatest first-round picks in history

Who do you agree with? Matt or Ian? Be sure to let us know in the comments section below, and stay with us here at Riggo’s Rag, as we’ll give you all the latest updates on the Dez Bryant situation, and more!