Chris Cooley addresses return to Redskins

The Washington Redskins announced on Monday that tight end Chris Cooley has re-signed with the team to replace injured tight end Fred Davis who was placed on season-ending injured reserve. Cooley, who was released by Washington before the 2012 season, rejoins the only team he has ever played for in his eight previous NFL seasons.

Cooley spoke with reporters today on a conference call shortly after it was announced that he was coming back to Washington. He said that he got the call from the Redskins on Sunday night after the team had returned from New York.

After being cut in the offseason, Cooley said, "I feel very fortunate I didn't go somewhere else, because this is the opportunity I always wanted," and that "I'd be kicking myself if I was in another city right now and this came up."

In his career, Cooley has 423 catches for 4,703 yards and 33 touchdowns. He is the Redskins' all-time leader in receptions at the tight end position.

Davis suffered a torn Achilles on the Redskins' first drive of the game Sunday against the New York Giants. He was helped off the field and eventually carted from the sideline to the locker room. He did not return in the 27-23 loss and after the game, Washington head coach Mike Shanahan confirmed that the injury would end Davis' season.

"I'm excited, Cooley said during the call. "I was disappointed for Fred. But I'm very excited to be a part of this team." Cooley also said he has stayed in shape and believes he is ready to play right away, saying "I think I could play this week, no doubt about that."

The Redskins are back in action on Sunday, Oct. 28, when they travel to take on the Pittsburgh Steelers at Heinz Field.