He's a Pad-Carrying Member of the NFL Now

Originally Published: Jul 27, 2010 10:2 PM CDT

At this time last year, Dez Bryant wasn’t carrying anyone’s pads. Most likely didn’t do it in high school, probably never. Then this whole NFL rookie thing turned his world upside down for a couple of days.

I don’t have a problem with Dez wanting to stand up for himself, and talk about focusing on the more important things.

What I do have a problem with iswho in his support group (agent? mentor?) failed to explain to him that, while it may seem silly and all, it is and has been a rite of passage for NFL newcomersfor DECADES.

Apparently it took former all-pro safety Rodney Harrison to take Dez aside and explain how things work. Now Dez is good with everything, Cowboys receiver Roy Williams (whose pads will now be carried) is good with everything, and we can all go back to watching Dez do what he does best- catch passes.

At least until the next welcome to the NFL moment. I hope someone, ANYONE in his entourage is thinking about the other possible issues they haven’t covered.