One familiar face who still is without a home for the 2018 NFL season is Dez Bryant, one of the many players who have left the Cowboys since the end of last season. Jason Witten retired, and the team surprisingly released kicker Dan Bailey earlier this week, marking the end of their relationship with their most successful kicker in franchise history. The most interesting story though has been Dez Bryant, who still is in the earlier stages of his career.

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The three-time pro bowler and 2014’s league leader in touchdown receptions, had a career low in yards per catch and touchdowns in 2017, despite starting all 16 games. Perhaps the change came from Dallas wanting to change things up from a step backwards last season, in which they fell to 9-7 after making the playoffs the previous year. Between the passing game not being as effective and the struggle with Ezekiel Elliott's suspension, the Cowboys offense sputtered last year.

Bryant suffered from an knee fracture in 2016, which has hurt his speed and agility. He is not the deep threat he once was. Plus, the NFL is moving away from receivers like Bryant who go up for contested throws, and moving instead toward space creating receivers.

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Despite this, there still can be a space for Bryant in the league, as many players have adapted to new roles on new teams. For example, Larry Fitzgerald has moved from outside wide out to slot receiver with the Cardinals and remains one of the highest targeted receivers in the NFL. There also is LeGarrette Blount, who has switched teams four times to end up being the league’s most prominent goal line threat with the New England Patriots.

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Many rumors have been circulating as to where Bryant will end up for this season, with many speculating that he could play for the Browns in the near future. He tweeted out in April that he liked what the Browns are doing over the offseason, furthering said rumors. In August, he worked out with the Browns and the Browns then offered him a contract. The Browns reportedly offered Bryant less than five million dollars for a one year stay, and the Ravens also offered him a multiyear contract, which he declined. He has publicly stated that he wants to try and find a one year deal, according to NFL Network.

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If the Browns were to sign Bryant for the next season, he would most likely start alongside Jarvis Landry and Josh Gordon and give another talented target to Tyrod Taylor or Baker Mayfield, should he have to start in Taylor’s place. Bryant has stated that he believes he will play, and says he is content with where he currently is physically and mentally. He has also expressed that he will play later in the season. Needless to say, Bryant could be a difference maker, wherever he goes.