Back in April, the Dallas Cowboys released wide receiver Dez Bryant. It came as quite a shock to some, considering the veteran had been with the team for his whole career after being drafted in 2010. 

A CHANGING OF THE GUARD

For others though, the news was not too surprising. 

There's been a clear drop in the 29-year-old's form since 2014. That year, he led the league in receiving touchdowns with 16 - but hasn't got close to that number since. 

After failing to make the playoffs in 2017, changes needed to be made in Dallas - and Dez was deemed replaceable. 

FINDING A NEW TEAM

When he was released four months ago, it was widely expected that Bryant would have little trouble finding a new home. 

However, we're now less than two weeks away from the start of the regular season and the WR is still a free agent. 

Now, that may be his own fault. Reports suggest that Bryant has received offers from at least two teams - the Cleveland Browns and the Baltimore Ravens. 

Apparently, he values himself higher than some of his potential employers - and may be holding out for a better offer - both in terms of money, and perhaps destination. 

RUNNING OUT OF TIME

As mentioned, time is running out for Dez to sign a deal. The new season begins on September 7 and it's looking increasingly unlikely that he'll be on the pitch in time for kickoff. 

Interestingly though, that appears to be something that Bryant is now prepared for. 

Earlier this week, he tweeted out to suggest that he will play this year... but it probably won't be until after the season starts. 

"I can I just have to take care of me first....gave too much love and not received at least half back," Dez wrote, responding to someone asking if he can still play in the NFL.

"I will play ball this year just might be a lil bit later in the year.. we will see."

A CHANGE OF MENTALITY 

The fact that Bryant seems to have accepted that things might not go his way is refreshing, considering how vocal he's been about himself and his talent in the past.

But, on the other hand, suggesting that he hasn't received enough "love back from the game" seems a little strange. 

The NFL doesn't owe him anything - and if Dez is waiting for a contract offer up to his apparent standards - he may be waiting a very long time.