Dez Bryant, the Dallas Cowboys’ fiery star receiver, was released on Friday.
“This was not an easy decision,” the team’s owner, Jerry Jones, said in a statement with few specifics. “It was made based upon doing what we believe is in the best interest of the Dallas Cowboys.
“Ultimately, we determined it was time to go in a new direction.”
Bryant, 29, is a passionate player known for highlight-reel catches. He was active on Twitter in the aftermath of the decision, saying: “Cowboy Nation, I need you to know this wasn’t my decision. I will always love y’all.