In a recent move by the Dallas Cowboys, they have decided to release receiver James Washington. Who didn’t really fit into the team thanks to injuries and in terms of production. As far as the decision is concerned, a lot has to do with the great production that TY Hilton has offered the lone star team. In just two games, Hilton already has five receptions for 102 yards. Something that clearly could not be seen in James.
The news would come out in the morning hours of Wednesday, where various sources confirmed the fact that James will no longer continue in Dallas. He played in just two games this season, didn’t add anything offensively and was targeted by Prescott just once against the Texans.
The Cowboys are releasing veteran WR James Washington, source confirms to @YahooSports.
T.Y. Hilton off to impactful start already in 2 pitch-count games. Depth needed elsewhere on roster. Cowboys have Hilton, CeeDee Lamb, Michael Gallup, Noah Brown. Pass-catching TEs, RBs also.
— Jori Epstein (@JoriEpstein) January 4, 2023
Washington would arrive on March 18 of this year to the franchise through free agency. In the midst of everything that the Amari Cooper trade to the Browns represented, the Cowboys were looking for a receiver who, with his experience in the league, would function as a backup at important moments of the season. His contract would be for one year, but as you can see, he didn’t get to pay off in the organization.
It could be said that James did not get to shine in the Dallas Cowboys thanks to injuries. During early training camp in Oxnard, in a one-on-one drill with Trevon Diggs, the receiver broke his right foot. At first there was talk of the possibility that it would be low from six to ten weeks. It ended up being 14 until they would finally give him the 21-day window to see if he was ready to take the field.
Cowboys WR James Washington is injured, not putting weight on right leg after play. pic.twitter.com/KN7kUXi12y
— Michael Gehlken (@GehlkenNFL) August 1, 2022
As already mentioned, after his low production and the fact that the receiving corps also includes Noah Brown and TY Hilton, the decision has been made. Now, there may be a slight chance for Washington to return to the franchise, at least in what would be the practice squad.
After his release, he is in a period of exemption or “waivers”. Therefore, Dallas will have to wait 24 hours to see if any other organization wants to get their services. Given his low production and the fact that he really was behind the scenes with Dallas, it’s a bit difficult for another team to look to sign him. In addition, many organizations already have their locker rooms ready for what will be the postseason. So it is difficult for James to see action in another team until the next offseason.
With James Washington released, Cowboys do have some interest in bringing him back to practice squad if he clears waivers. Washington had a difficult season from a health standpoint. Injured both feet.
— Calvin Watkins (@calvinwatkins) January 4, 2023
Regarding the catcher issue, Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy spoke at a press conference a few hours after the news broke. “I actually feel bad for James’ opportunity here,” said the head coach. “Special teams play a big part in these kinds of decisions.” Of course, McCarthy praised the player and his work ethic. Waiting for his paths to cross again.
Cowboys coach Mike McCarthy on WR James Washington: “I actually feel bad about James’ opportunity here. …Special teams plays a big part in these decisions.” Respects Washington and his work ethic. Roster situation, injuries contributed to move. Hopes their paths cross again. https://t.co/v3MSELGwId pic.twitter.com/XQyPY9UFaM
— Michael Gehlken (@GehlkenNFL) January 4, 2023
Unfortunately, these are things that happen in the discipline. He was brought to Washington in order to provide more experience to the young receiving corps. In his place, his injury in the preseason kept him on the sidelines and another veteran who arrived later took that role away from him. It’s expected that if James doesn’t make the Cowboys’ practice squad, he could be a part of every other NFL locker room.
