Redskins Bubble Watch: Chris Cooley's fate remains undecided

For years Redskins fans called out his name anytime he did something well, filling FedEx Field with sounds of "Cooooley." But it's debatable whether they'll get that chance this season as tight end Chris Cooley headlines the list of bubble players.

By John Keim

Aug 25, 2012 at 8:12 am ET • 2 min read

For years Redskins fans called out his name anytime he did something well, filling FedEx Field with sounds of “Cooooley.” But it’s debatable whether they’ll get that chance this season as tight end Chris Cooley headlines the list of bubble players.

The Redskins kept four tight ends last season so this isn’t a done deal. But his competition may come from other positions and how many players the Redskins keep at those spots.

Chris Cooley (TE, 9th year, franchise’s all-time leading receiver at tight end) -- Cooley no longer is a starter, having been passed by Fred Davis a year ago. Meanwhile, Cooley dealt with a knee injury that eventually ended his season after five games. At nearly $3.2 million (and approximately $6.2 vs. the cap) he’s an expensive backup. He has passed one test: his knee hasn’t bothered him this summer and that’s one thing the Redskins wanted to see. With Niles Paul moving to tight end, the Redskins have another versatile option.
Anthony Armstrong (WR, third year, averaged 19.8 yards per catch in 2010) -- He went from 44 catches two years ago to seven last season, a drop fueled by injuries as well as style of play. Armstrong is a deep receiver, but the Redskins weren’t adept at throwing the long ball last season. However, he hasn’t stood out in camp and he missed nearly three weeks with a separated shoulder. He’s in a fight with Aldrick Robinson, Dezmon Briscoe, Brandon Banks and Terrence Austin for one of the last two roster spots (if they only keep six wideouts). Armstrong is an excellent gunner on special teams and that gives him an edge.
Brandon Banks (WR/KR/PR, third year, has returned one kickoff for touchdown; averaged 11.3 yards on PRs in 2010) -- The speedy Banks provided a reminder of his skills with a 91-yard punt return last week. But it’s not as if the coaches didn’t know he was fast. They want him to prove he can help at receiver and thus far he hasn’t. Banks’ size and route-running haven’t helped him thus far and durability is a concern. He also fumbled seven times last season (five on punt returns). Robinson, Briscoe, Armstrong and Austin all are vying with him.