The Dez Bryant era with the Dallas Cowboys is over.
Bryant was informed of his release after a Friday meeting with owner Jerry Jones to discuss his future.
The Cowboys saved $8.5 million off the cap, but the three-time Pro Bowl wide receiver still counts as $8 million in dead money. It is not known if he will be designated as a post-June 1 cut. If so, he would count $4 million against the 2018 cap and $4 million against the 2019 cap.
The finances were at the crux of the decision. The outcome is still shocking because of Bryant’s stature within the organization and Jones’ close personal relationship with him since the team picked in 24th overall in the 2010 NFL Draft.