Garrett: Dez Bryant Not A Distraction
IRVING (CBSDFW.COM) -- There are a number of things to point at following the Cowboys 31-30 loss to the Lions on Sunday. But the bulk of the conversation has revolved around what happened on the sideline -- not the field.
On two occasions, wide receiver Dez Bryant was seen engaging teammates in verbal arguments, both with the game undecided.
"Dez is a passionate guy," said head coach Jason Garrett on 105.3 The Fan's New School with Shan & RJ. "He's a fantastic teammate and everybody loves him -- loves to coach him. We love what he's all about. He wanted to contribute to the game. We understand that. We want guys that want the football, and Dez certainly wants it."
Cowboys coach Jason Garrett
Bryant was targeted six times on Sunday, reeling in three catches for 72 yards and two touchdowns. By comparison, Lions receiver Calvin Johnson caught 14 passes for 329 yards and a score.
Bryant was clearly frustrated with his role in the offense, and he voiced it to his teammates and coaches.
In the fourth quarter, Bryant and teammate Jason Witten exchanged heated words on the sideline. The injured Demarcus Ware stepped in to calm down Bryant.
"Dez is the furthest thing from a distraction or anything like that," said Garrett. "He's a hell of a player. Everybody loves his spirit and his passion. Again, we got to keep doing a better job of making sure he's involved in what we're doing each week and helping our football team."
Garrett talked to Bryant during the game, expressing the importance of concentrating on the next play -- not the previous one. But did he listen?
"Absolutely," said Garrett. "A fantastic kid and a fantastic teammate."
(©2013 CBS Local Media, a division of CBS Radio Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)
Sports Stories You May Also Be Interested In:
