Pittsburgh Steelers

Report: Steelers were aware of Bryant's possible suspension

Published Aug. 31, 2015 2:54 p.m. ET

foxsports

All throughout training camp, the Steelers raised a few eyebrows by proclaiming that Markus Wheaton would be on the field over Martavis Bryant in two-receiver sets, and now we know why.

The team was reportedly aware that Bryant had failed multiple drug tests as early as the spring, and knew a suspension could be coming, according Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

Bryant, who exploded onto the scene as a rookie with eight touchdown catches after missing the first six games of 2014, was slapped with a four-game ban last week. Bryant has two touchdown receptions in three preseason games, including a 39-yard score Saturday night in Buffalo.

The Steelers also drafted some insurance at receiver in the form of third-round pick Sammie Coates out of Auburn. Coates has a similar skill set to Bryant, but head coach Mike Tomlin has criticized him for not being in the best football shape, per Dulac.

If Bryant fails another drug test, he'll be looking at a 10-game suspension.

h/t: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette