Dez Bryant is already one of the NFL’s most respected receivers. Yet second-year quarterback Dak Prescott thinks the star wideout deserves credit for having improved more than any other Dallas Cowboys player.
“Somebody asked me the other day who I think is the most improved player and I said Dez, just the way he’s been taking care of his body, his effort, his attitude,” Prescott said, per Jon Machota of the Dallas Morning News. “Everything from last year to this year, it’s just exciting to throw him the ball and watch what he can do after the catch.”
Bryant, in addition to missing seven games two years ago, was unavailable in three 2016 contests. He and Prescott needed to develop a rapport, and it probably came along slower than Dallas would’ve hoped.
The Oklahoma State product finished the season with 50 receptions for 796 yards and eight touchdowns. While the production was reasonable given the growing chemistry and protective game plans, the lack of downfield throws could be a bit frustrating.
For example, when Bryant and Tony Romo were both healthy, the duo connected for 22 passes of 20-plus yards. Last season, however, Prescott hit Bryant for just 10 receptions. Even accounting for missed games, the average was essentially slashed in half.
Machota notes Prescott commented on the improved chemistry because Bryant has been healthy during the offseason. And in the Cowboys’ recent preseason game, Prescott found Bryant for a 32-yard score down the left sideline.
If Prescott is more willing to target Bryant downfield more often in 2017, Dallas will have added an important asset to their offense.
Perhaps that chemistry Prescott now feels is ultimately what makes Bryant the Cowboys’ most improved player.