Steelers demote Bryant, Freeney joins Seahawks

Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Martavis Bryant was moved down to the scout team on Wednesday and is expected to be inactive for Sunday night’s game against the Detroit Lions.

The 25-year-old Bryant told reporters Wednesday he is not playing Sunday. When asked why, Bryant said, “Social media.” Bryant told reporters after Wednesday’s practice he is frustrated. Bryant was targeted twice and caught one pass for three yards during last Sunday’s 29-14 win over the Cincinnati Bengals.

In other NFL action, out-of-work free agent quarterback Colin Kaepernick, who began the movement of players around the league protesting by kneeling during national anthem while he was playing for the San Francisco 49ers last year, is expected to be invited to the next meeting between owners and players.

The meeting is scheduled Tuesday in New York, but there is no confirmation whether Kaepernick will attend.

NFL spokesman Joe Lockhart said he expects Kaepernick will be invited, according to ESPN. The invitation would be extended by the players, not the league, Lockhart said.

Also, the Seattle Seahawks added veteran defensive end Dwight Freeney to bolster their pass-rushing depth as the two sides agreed to terms on a one-year contract.

The 37-year-old Freeney spent the first 11 seasons of his career in Indianapolis, earning Pro Bowl honors seven times and firstteam All-Pro honors three times.

Meanwhile, Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Carson Wentz was named NFC Offensive Player of the Week for his four-touchdown passing performance in Monday night’s win over the Washington Redskins.

The NFL also announced that Oakland Raiders wide receiver Amari Cooper took the AFC offensive honor in Week 7 as he made 11 catches for 210 yards and two touchdowns in Sunday’s 31-30 comeback win over the Kansas City Chiefs.

Chicago Bears safety Eddie Jackson was named the NFC Defensive Player of the Week after his 75-yard fumble return for a touchdown and 76-yard interception return for a score in the 17-3 win over the Carolina Panthers.

Tennessee Titans safety Kevin Byard earned the AFC defensive award for his three-interception performance in the 12-9 win against the winless Cleveland Browns.