Oft-suspended WR Martavis Bryant seeks shot at NFL redemption

By applying for reinstatement from yet another suspension, Martavis Bryant has taken the latest step in an effort to remove himself from contention for a dubious honor: the NFL player with the most unfilled potential.

Since joining the league as a fourth-round draft pick by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2014, the wide receiver has spent almost as much time stumbling in trouble and trying to get his life in order than he has running pass patterns and blocking.

The NFL has benched him three times in the past four years, all related to its substance abuse regulations. He missed the entire 2016 season in Pittsburgh and half of last year's with the Raiders, though partly because of injury in Oakland.

Reports indicate that Bryant believes his issues go beyond drugs, as they do for many users, and into the realm of mental health. He has maintained that the substance abuse program has lacked such a treatment component, and now he might get his wish. All teams are newly required to include a behavioral health clinician on their staffs beginning this season.

Which franchise extends Bryant another shot remains uncertain. He is a free agent, and his productivity with the Raiders hints at possible slippage: 19 receptions, none for touchdowns, in eight games.

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For a healthy Bryant, however, the blue sky might be the limit. He has been dazzling enough at times that a highlight reel of catches would be Hall of Fame worthy.

Adding to his appeal. Bryant's short sample size in the playoffs hints that he rises to the occasion. In four outings, he registered 21 receptions, three for TDs, and 322 yards, plus 84 yards on only four carries.

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All it takes is one team to toss Bryant a lifeline. As the sport becomes increasingly pass-centric with rules accommodating receivers while hampering their defenders, the WR position has never been more integral to an offense.

If he meets the expectations of the NFL for reinstatement, Bryant will again be strapping on a helmet somewhere soon.