Chris Cooley Discusses Future With Redskins, Possible Retirement

Chris Cooley discussed his future with the Washington Redskins on Thursday.

Chris Cooley Released: Redskins General Manager Says Tight End Could Be Re-Signed

Despite being released by the Redskins on Aug. 28, it seems tight end Chris Cooley could still re-sign with Washington. According to the team's official Twitter page, general manager Bruce Allen has said, "Yes, absolutely that door is still open. We have a meeting next week."

Cooley played five games last year, and managed only eight receptions for 65 yards. There was some question as to whether he would retire or join another team after injuries prevented him from playing in most of Washington's games in 2011.

Cooley, entering what would be his ninth season, has been a Redskin for his entire career since coming out of Utah State in 2004. In his first four years, he caught at least six touchdowns in each season.

Fred Davis, in his fourth season with the Redskins, will start at tight end.

For more on the Redskins, head over to Hogs Haven, while SB Nation DC will continue to have the latest updates and news.

Chain Reactions: Is Cutting Cooley the Right Call?

This week's "Chain Reactions" explores why Chris Cooley's release is not a surprise, but the timing might be; also, the skidding Nationals.

Chris Cooley Released: Breaking Down Chris Cooley's Departure

Chris Cooley is no longer a Redskins player, but there are still many questions surrounding his departure.

Chris Cooley Released: Here's Chris Cooley And Fred Davis Riding Tricycles At A Capitals Game

Chris Cooley Released Reaction: 'It's Been Great'

It takes a special player for an organization to allow him to announce his official release from a team, but that's what the Washington Redskins did Tuesday with tight end Chris Cooley (the transcript provided by Washington Times writer Stepehn Whyno).

This will be brief. … The Washington Redskins are releasing me today. So today, for the time being, will be my last day as a Redskin.

"It's been awesome. I've been very, very fortunate to play for a franchise that has embraced me and for a fan base that has embraced me the way that they have. This organization has changed my life in every way for the better, and I appreciate it. I've loved every minute of playing here. It's been a good ride. It's been a pleasure.

Of course, the sentiment goes both ways (from the SB Nation blog Hogs' Haven):

I'm sure this is a sad day for many as Cooley has been many of ours favorite player over the past decade. Good luck to Chris wherever his career may take him.

Even though he never threw a touchdown to the nine-year veteran, rookie quarterback Robert Griffin III gave his thanks via Twitter.

He helped me get comfortable with this team & this offense. He is a legend in my mind and will be missed. Thank You Chris Cooley

— Robert Griffin III (@RGIII) August 28, 2012

Even Mike Shanahan got a little emotional, as CSN Washington recorded.

Yet, the best reaction probably came from Cooley's possible replacement, Niles Paul.

Took me in, treated me like his lil brother & was the one who truly helped me believe that I could play TE in this league. Sad day... #HTTR

— Niles Paul (@Niles_Paul84) August 28, 2012

But there's no better way to say goodbye, than to hear it from the player himself.

"I want to thank all you guys. Our media has been so, so good to me. So I appreciate everything. I'm sorry I'm a baby [choking up]. I appreciate everything you guys have done for me. And I guess, finally, say thank you to our fans. It's been great. Thank you."

Chris Cooley Released By Redskins

The Washington Redskins released veteran tight end Chris Cooley on Tuesday, ending an eight-year relationship with their 2004 Draft pick.