Dez Bryant

College: Oklahoma State University (2007-2009)

High School: Lufkin

Pro: NFL (2010-2020, Dallas Cowboys, New Orleans Saints, Baltimore Ravens)

Position: Wide Receiver

Age: 36

NFL Career:

  • 3X Pro Bowl Selections 2013, 2014, 2016

  • First-Team All-Pro (2014)

  • NFL Receiving Touchdowns Leader - 16 touchdowns (2014)

  • Dallas Cowboys Franchise Records, most career receiving touchdowns: 73, most single-season receiving touchdowns: 16

  • Consensus All-American (2008)

  • First-Team All-Big 12 (2008)

Dez Bryant enjoyed an outstanding NFL career, solidifying himself as one of the league's premier wide receivers during his prime. Drafted 24th overall by the Dallas Cowboys in the 2010 NFL Draft, Bryant quickly became a fan favorite with his combination of size, athleticism, and electric playmaking ability. Known for his powerful physicality and passion for the game, Bryant became a key contributor to the Cowboys' offense and earned a reputation as a dominant red-zone target.

Bryant's best stretch came between 2012 and 2014, when he was nearly unstoppable. Over those three seasons, he recorded three consecutive 1,000-yard campaigns, totaling 273 receptions for 3,935 yards and an impressive 41 touchdowns. His 2014 season was particularly remarkable—Dez set a Cowboys' franchise record with 16 touchdown catches, leading the NFL in that category while adding 88 receptions for 1,320 yards.

A three-time Pro Bowler (2013, 2014, 2016) and First-Team All-Pro in 2014, Dez's passion for the game and ability to "high-point" the ball made him one of the most feared wideouts of his era. Throughout his career with the Cowboys (2010-2017) and later brief stints with the New Orleans Saints and Baltimore Ravens, Dez finished with 531 receptions for 7,506 yards and 75 career touchdowns, cementing his place among the all-time greats in Cowboys history.

Bryant's emotional leadership and iconic "Throw up the X" touchdown celebration became synonymous with his success.

College Career:

Dez Bryant had an electrifying college career at Oklahoma State University (OSU), where he showcased the elite talent that would make him one of the best wide receivers in the nation. Playing under head coach Mike Gundy, Bryant was a game-changing force for the Cowboys, combining athleticism, strong hands, and unmatched playmaking ability.

In 2008, his standout sophomore season, Bryant emerged as a star. He recorded an astounding 87 receptions for 1,480 yards and 19 touchdowns, ranking among the top receivers in the country. His ability to make spectacular catches, break tackles, and dominate opposing secondaries earned him First-Team All-Big 12 honors and First-Team All-American recognition. Dez's signature performance came against Kansas that year, when he tallied 11 receptions for 212 yards and 2 touchdowns, solidifying his status as one of college football's premier wideouts.

Bryant's electrifying play wasn’t limited to offense—he was also a dangerous punt returner. During his time at OSU, he averaged 17.9 yards per punt return and scored 2 return touchdowns, proving his versatility and game-changing ability.

Despite his 2009 season being cut short, Bryant's time at OSU left a lasting impression. In just 28 career games, he totaled 147 receptions for 2,425 yards and 29 receiving touchdowns, ranking among the best in school history. Dez's combination of size, skill, and charisma made him an unstoppable force for the Cowboys and a fan favorite in Stillwater.

Bryant's legacy at Oklahoma State is defined by his highlight-reel plays and his role in helping elevate the OSU football program to new heights. His success in college set the stage for his incredible NFL career, making him one of the most beloved players to ever don the orange and black.

Next
Next

Mack Hollins