Receiver Bryant signs with Ravens

Former Cowboys receiver Dez Bryant moved one step closer to playing in the NFL again.

The 31- year- old Bryant signed with the Baltimore Ravens on Tuesday and was assigned to the practice squad.

Bryant last played in 2017, when he had 69 catches for 838 yards in his eighth and final season in Dallas. He signed with New Orleans in November 2018 but tore his Achilles tendon before getting into a game.

Now he’s on the cusp of getting back on the field.

Bryant said on Twitter: “My emotions running high right now I’m thankful I can’t stop crying.”

If he’s retained his speed and is not too rusty, Bryant could add a much- needed deep threat to a Baltimore passing attack that ranks 31st in yards per game. Second- year receiver Marquis Brown is quarterback Lamar Jackson’s most prominent target for the long ball.

Baltimore waived safety Marcus Gilchrist from the practice squad to make room for Bryant.

Christian McCaffrey was designated for return from the team’s injured reserve list, increasing the likelihood Carolina’s 2019 AllPro running back will play Thursday night against the Atlanta Falcons. ... The Detroit Lions acquired veteran defensive end Everson Griffen from the Cowboys for a conditional draft pick to strengthen one of the team’s weaknesses.