The Washington Redskins will bring back longtime tight end Chris Cooley after cutting him earlier in the season as they search for depth in the wake of a season-ending injury to Fred Davis, according to Jason La Canfora.

Cooley, who has played his entire eight-year career with the Redskins, has been a free agent since being released Aug. 28. The 30-year-old insisted after an emotional goodbye that he would wait for the ideal situation and possibly consider retiring rather than signing with the first team to offer him, with the insinuation that he would likely re-sign with the Redskins should they need him. With Davis tearing his Achilles - an injury with a lengthy rehab process - they're in need of an extra tight end, and Cooley is a perfect fit. La Canfora reports that the fan favorite has remained in the Washington area and has been working out to remain in playing shape despite not being on an NFL roster.

Cooley is the Redskins' career record holder in receptions by a tight end, but last season, he had eight receptions in only five games. He will likely be a third-stringer behind Niles Paul and Logan Paulsen, who are currently on the roster. He also has the ability to play a fullback role for the team if needs be.

This post originally appeared on SBNation.com.