Ben Roethlisberger

Why Martavis Bryant's return opens things up for Antonio Brown

Published Oct. 7, 2015 12:44 p.m. ET

Ross Jones

The Steelers' offense has been in desperate need of a spark since quarterback Ben Roethlisberger went down with a sprained MCL.

Bryant, who was suspended the first four games for violating the league's policy on substance abuse, could be the key that unlocks the offense for Michael Vick.

"It opens up things more for Antonio Brown because Martavis can take the top off of a defense," an AFC scout said. "He's going to require more than one guy because of his ability to stretch defenses. I think in doing that teams are going to have to pick their poison.

"Adding Bryant in the mix, it makes it difficult because if you try to double both of them it opens up everything. The guy you don't double is someone that can beat single coverage, so it's a tough proposition. It will make reads easier for Vick because the middle of the field will be less cluttered. When you have Martavis stretching stuff out, you can get Brown some room to work his magic in the middle with those option routes."

For a sneak peek at how Vick and Bryant could work together, check out their 63-yard preseason connection.

Read this week's Front Office Insider, which details the six starting players returning from four-week suspensions.

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Ben Roethlisberger

Pittsburgh Steelers

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