To wide receiver Dez Bryant, that decision is a no-brainer based on what Hardy already has provided on the field.
“You see guys perform at a high level around him, and that’s what he brings to the defense,” Bryant told Sporting News. “I know I would love to see Greg back with us. He’s a great teammate. I love him. I hope we can get him back.
“Greg Hardy loves the game. Anybody who loves the game, I love him.”
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Hardy played well in his 12 games this season, his first in Dallas, after serving a four-game suspension — 35 tackles, six sacks, an interception and a forced fumble. The question about retaining him as a free agent is less about Hardy’s production, and more about whether the Cowboys are content with the way he conducted himself off the field.
The defense did its best to hold the Cowboys together with Hardy. But the team finished 4-12 because foot and ankle injuries caused Bryant to miss seven games, and a broken collarbone put quarterback Tony Romo on the shelf for 12 weeks.
“We were both extremely frustrated, dealing with these injuries,” Bryant said. “It didn’t stop from me from trying to be out there with my teammates to help them win games. He felt he needed to be there, too. It just goes to show you his mentality. He’s a strong-willed person.
A photo posted by Dez Bryant (@dezbryant) on Jan 31, 2016 at 3:51pm PST
“The good thing we got out of this past season is that nobody ever gave up. Hopefully that will translate into next season.”
As soon as the season ended, Bryant needed follow-up procedures on his right foot and ankle. He’s expecting to be fine when the Cowboys begin their offseason program in three months, and he can’t wait to play again.
MORE: Interpreting Jason Garrett’s Hardy comments | Disgraced athletes
“I feel good. My surgery went well,” Bryant said. “I’ve got everything I need to put me on the right track, and I just can’t wait to get back on the field.”
Bryant talked to SN this week as the new face of BODYARMOR sports drink. It’s already been a big factor in keeping him healthy and hydrated through all his training.
“I’m extremely blessed to be asked to promote BODYARMOR. The drink is extremely natural; there’s nothing artificial about it,” Bryant said. “It helped everything out. My body felt better, and I’m going to keep using it. My refrigerator is full of it. It’s not just for show, it’s the real deal.”
