Photo Credit: Robert Benson/US Presswire
The start of week 5 is usually the start of another week like the past four for most players, but for some, it is going to be their return to the NFL this season. Suspended players have sat out four games and this week is their chance to show that they’re actually improved or if they have learned nothing in their time off. Some of the biggest players coming back are Steelers WR Martavis Bryant, Chargers TE Antonio Gates, Cowboys LB Rolando McClain, and Jets DE Sheldon Richardson.
Bryant and Gates really go hand in hand, because the Steelers and Chargers will be playing on Monday Night Football this week. With Big Ben out, Michael Vick has to pick up the pieces and last week’s game against the Ravens proved that Vick needs a lot more help than originally thought. That’s where Martavis Bryant comes in! Bryant’s addition to the Steelers offense is going to open up another opportunity for Vick. With Bryant and Bell both off of suspension, it looks like Vick could possibly bring the Steelers to a win if he can utilize the tools that he’s been given and if the offense can come together.
Tight end Antonio Gates became an essential part of the Chargers offense last year, especially after tapering off the previous seasons and many attributed it to his age. 2013 had to be one of Gates’ worst seasons with only 77 receptions, four touchdowns, and two fumbles. Then in 2014, Gates really redeemed himself despite only 69 receptions, had 12 touchdowns and one fumble which was one of his best seasons to date. This year looks like it could be a repeat performance for Gates and with the Chargers now 2-2 along with the Steelers, the game could be a dealbreaker for each team.
The Dallas Cowboys have been known for having one of the worst defenses last year, but this year looks like a whole different team for them. With the addition of two first-round talents of Byron Jones and Randy Gregory, the defense got some much-needed depth and it looks like it will getting even more help with the return of LB Rolando McClain. McClain was acquired from the Raiders and only appeared in 13 games with the Cowboys, but he had 81 combined tackles, one forced fumble, and two interceptions which were one of his best career seasons
Sheldon Richardson is going to bring some major depth to the Jets’ already loaded defensive line and while his stats aren’t much to talk about, Richardson is one of many Pro-Bowl caliber defensemen on the team. He has 144 combined tackles, two forced fumbles, and 17 stuffs. Richardson is set to make his appearance against the Washington Redskins next week, but with guys like Williams and Wilkerson already out there, it looks like Richardson could have to fight for his starting job. Regardless of he plays or not next week, Richardson’s presence alone should be enough to keep the other team on their toes.
