Toronto Argonauts add Martavis Bryant, re-sign Alden Darby

On a day that brought a lot of moves across the CFL, the Toronto Argonauts made a big announcement with the signing of wide receiver Martavis Bryant.

The former Pittsburgh Steelers receiver last played in the NFL in 2018 with the Oakland Raiders before getting suspended indefinitely for violating the NFL’s substance-abuse policy. He applied for reinstatement to the league in 2019 but has not been approved.

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This is the second attempt the Argos are making to bring in a bonafide NFL talent to their offence after trying to sign T.J. Jones but ran into CBA issues. There is no questioning Bryant’s talent as he recorded 145 receptions for 2,183 yards and 17 touchdowns in 44 NFL games.

He brings decent size and speed to a revamped Argos offence that added
Juwan Brescacin, Davaris Daniels Natey Adjei, Dejon Brissett, Karlos Williams, Kenneth Dixon and of course, Matt Nichols. How it all comes together under new head coach Ryan Dinwiddie will be interesting.

It’s no secret that Bryant has the talent to be a successful receiver in the CFL and he is looking to prove that he is worthy of another chance in the NFL. Joining the Argos at least gives him the opportunity to do that, even if it is for a short time.

Alden Darby returning to the Toronto Argonauts

Along with the addition of Bryant, Toronto also announced that defensive back Alden Darby has re-signed for the 2021 season.

Darby has been with the Argos for the past three seasons and has been an important contributor making 137 defensive tackles, one sack, eight interceptions and three defensive touchdowns in 43 career games. In 2019, he had five interceptions which tied him for first among all defenders in the East Division.

Getting the 28-year-old signed keeps him from reaching free agency and brings back a big part of their secondary. Darby is also a popular player in the locker room and with Argos fans.

Argos fans should expect a motivated Darby who felt that he should have been an all-star in 2019. If he can remain productive, the Double Blue should improve after a tough couple of seasons.

What are your thoughts on the Argos adding Bryant? Do you think he can be a productive receiver in the NFL? Let us know in the comments below.