WASHINGTON (WUSA) -- "It's been awesome. I've been very, very fortunate to play for a
franchise that has embraced me the way that they have," said Cooley on
Tuesday to reporters. "This organization has changed my life. In every
way."
Hearing those words come out of Chris Cooley's mouth Tuesday afternoon was one of the more shocking moments in recent D.C. sports history. I'm not going to lie, it's hard not to become a little emotional about this decison -- mainly if Cooley does latch onto another team.
We all knew the possibility of Cooley not being a part of the franchise existed; we all just thought it was hearsay in today's 24/7 non-stop news cycle.
This is how I will remember Chris Cooley. Tweet me your favorite memory @Mr_KevinJones.
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1) His three touchdown game in 2005 against the Cowboys, which resulted in a 35-7 Redskins win. Cooley was also named an All-Pro in 2005.
2) Cooley was dared early on in his career to introduce himself to the opposing team during the coin toss as "Captain Chaos." He did so, and the nickname stuck ever since.
3) Cooley became one of the first athletes in the mid-2000's to recognize the power of the internet and the media. He regularly scribed blog posts, was active on Twitter for quite awhile and even had weekly segments on 106.7 The Fan -- a rarity for a current player.
4) Remember the time Cooley accidentally posted a picture private part, as well as the Redskins playbook?
5) In his eight seasons, Cooley totaled 33 touchdowns, 4,703 yards and two pro bowls with the Redskins. Cooley 428 catches are first in team history and 19th of all-time in NFL history.
6) Cooley married ex-Redskins cheerleader Christy, who chose the tight end over dancing for her favorite team.
7) His short-shorts and his always changing hairstyles captivated fans in Washington D.C.
8) Last October, Cooley said he enjoyed seeing Tony Romo choke.
9) Cooley has always been known to be 'out there', and truly proved that phrase when he opened up his own art gallery. Here is a video of Cooley making pottery.
10) Injuries and Fred Davis' emergence ultimately did in Chris Cooley's time in Washington. Personality wise, Cooley will never, ever, be replaced in this town.