James Washington, the former second-round Steelers draft pick who also played for the Cowboys, is trying to reignite his NFL career after a near two-year absence.
Washington announced his reemergence via video posted to his Instagram account. The clip features plays from his Steelers day as well as current scenes of him working out at The Fieldhouse in Abilene, Tx.
He labeled the video “God’s Timing.” He served as his own narrator in the clip:
“I was forgotten about,” said the former Steelers receiver. “I want to show the world I still have it. People who say ‘aw, he’s done, he’s washed, there’s still a lot of meat on the bone, conditioning wise, physical wise. I’m training five days a week. And the other two days of the week, I’m thinking about it. Injuries happen. It’s not not how you handle it, it’s how you come back.”
Washington led Steelers in receptions in 2019
The Steelers selected Washington, the former Oklahoma State star, in the second round of the 2018 NFL Draft. Coincidentally, Pittsburgh then went back to Oklahoma State in the third round, selecting quarterback Mason Rudolph. Ok State sported one of the most dynamic offenses in college football and the Steelers looked to bring that magic to Pittsburgh.
Washington led the Steelers in receiving in 2019. That’s the year he caught 44 passes for 735 yards and a trio of touchdowns. Overall, he played in 60 games, with 25 starts, for Pittsburgh with 114 catches for 1,629 yards and 11 touchdowns.
Washington played out his first contract then signed with the Dallas Cowboys. Washington grew up in Stamford, Texas, which is about 200 miles due west of AT&T Stadium. Yet Washington barely registered with the Cowboys. That’s because of injury. During training camp, he suffered a Jones Fracture. It’s a break of the the fifth metatarsal, which is the long bone on the outside of the foot.
Washington was able to return that season, but he only played in two games.
ESPN reports several teams interested in signing Washington
Washington received some looks from other NFL teams last year following his release by the Cowboys on Jan. 4, 2023. He spent two weeks with the Giants before the 2023 season ended. Then it was onto the Saints. Washington made it to mid-August with New Orleans before the Saints released him. The Colts gave him a 10-day glimpse, but he was released before the start of the regular season.
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported that several teams are interested in giving Washington another look. There should be opportunities for a tryout before training camps start around the NFL next month.
The Steelers seem to be on the look out for a receiver, but it’s unclear they’d bring this starter back for another look.
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