The Massachusetts Pirates have signed former NFL receiver Martavis Bryant for the 2021 season.
Bryant played for the Pittsburgh Steelers from 2014-2017 and inked a pact with the Toronto Argonauts in January.
“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.
“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.”
Pirates founder, president and general manager Jawad Yatim believes Bryant will not only make plays himself but also create opportunities for his teammates.
“It’s no secret as to what he is capable of on the football field. He’s a playmaker and can beat coverage in multiple ways, creating separation with his speed or exploiting defenders with his size and leaping ability. Special open field vision and anticipation after the catch, also very effective in the red zone. We believe he’ll be able to create opportunities and space for the rest of the offence,” Yatim said.
“Martavis, the person seems like a great guy and I feel like we are adding a humble presence to our locker room, and when you have someone who’s as accomplished as he is, yet humble like that it can impact your organization in a positive manner. I’m really looking forward to having him up here and contributing to the organization.”
The six-foot-four, 210-pound Bryant also played in the NFL in 2018 with the Oakland Raiders. He appeared in eight games for Oakland and had 19 catches for 266 receiving yards. He was originally drafted by Pittsburgh in the fourth round of the 2014 NFL Draft out of Clemson University.
A native of Calhoun Falls, South Carolina, Bryant suited up for the Clemson Tigers for three seasons (2011-2013). In 37 NCAA games, he hauled in 61 catches, 1,354 receiving yards and 13 receiving touchdowns. Bryant finished his Tigers career as the school’s all-time leader in yards per reception (22.2), while also winning two bowl games in the purple and orange.
Bryant and the rest of the Pirates will begin training camp next week as they begin preparation for their first season in the Indoor Football League, and more specifically a trip down to the KFC Yum! Center in Louisville for opening night on April 24 against the Xtreme.