SAN DIEGO, CA - AUGUST 07: Dez Bryant #88 of the Dallas Cowboys looks on from the bench during a preseason game against the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium on August 7, 2014 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Donald Miralle/Getty Images) (Photo by Donald Miralle/Getty Images)

By Ben Rogers | @BenRogers

ARLINGTON (105.3 THE FAN) — I had a chance to visit with Dez Bryant in the locker room following the Cowboys 20-17 OT win against Houston. We discussed several things, but I thought his approach to the Seahawks game was definitely worth revisiting.

When Richard Sherman and the Seahawks came up, I was somewhat prepared for fireworks, but I should’ve known better. That’s not Dez.

Me: “Have you looked forward to Seattle? Have you thought about Richard Sherman?”

Dez: “It’s gonna be a lot of fun, man. Sherman is arguably the best corner in the game and I know I’ve got to prepare the best way that I need to prepare for this challenge. I can’t wait. I love challenges, so hey, I’m ready to go.”

I thought this was another example of how far Dez has come. He’s far from the prima donna, turbo diva, throw-me-the-damn-ball, TO-like, nightmare ego wide receiver that many believed he might evolve into. His emotions remain in check as he continues to thrive in a team-oriented environment where ‘drawing a double-team so others can get open’ or blocking on a run play are his tasks. Tasks far removed from the Sunday night highlights.

So here’s a chance for Dez’s ego to breakdance in the spotlight. Maybe a preemptive smack-talking swipe at Trashtalkzilla, Richard Sherman. But, no. Dez is not interested. In my opinion, he’s matured significantly.

Me: “Is it fair to say that the old Dez might’ve jumped in here and talked trash to get a little something started? You seem to have matured significantly. I don’t know if that’s fair or unfair, but it seems that way to me.”

Dez: “I’m not gonna talk trash at all. I’m just gonna go out there and battle, because I’m gonna have to battle. [Talking trash] is something that I grew out of… but if you talk smack to me, you best believe I’m coming full force.”

Me: “But it’ll probably stay out on the field, though, right?”

Dez: “Oh yeah. It’ll stay out on the field. Much respect to a lot of those guys in Seattle because I know a lot of them. But Sunday, we’re gonna have to play.”

The future is incredibly bright for Mr. Bryant. His head is on straight, his team-first priorities are perfectly aligned, and he’s fully prepared to do all of his talking on the field.

Catch the Ben & Skin Show weekdays, 3-7 p.m. on 105.3 The Fan!

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