The New York Giants are adding former Cowboys and Steelers wide receiver James Washington to their practice squad. Washington was waived by Dallas last week after appearing in only two regular season games for them this season. The Giants had Washington in for a workout on Tuesday before ultimately signing him on Wednesday morning. New York is adding James Washington just ahead of the postseason with their Wild Card game to be played on Sunday afternoon. It is unlikely that Washington will be able to make an impact this year, but he could be a player that the Giants hold onto for next season.
What James Washington can bring to the New York Giants
James Washington is a veteran wide receiver who has been in the NFL for five seasons. He was a second-round draft pick for the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2018. Washington spent the first four seasons of his career in Pittsburgh before joining Dallas in 2022. He played in just two games for the Cowboys this season, though, having spent the majority of the season on injured reserve.
The Cowboys signed James Washington in free agency and the expectation was that he would play a large role in the team’s passing attack. However, Washington suffered a foot fracture during training camp that landed him on injured reserve until Week 14. He played just 15 offensive snaps and 13 on special teams in two games for Dallas this season and was targeted just once, dropping the only pass that came his way.
James Washington’s best years are behind him. During his time in Dallas from 2018 to 2021, Washington accumulated 114 receptions for 1629 yards and 11 touchdowns. He had a career year in 2019, totaling 735 yards and three touchdowns that season.
The New York Giants have been thin at the wide receiver position all season long. Big Blue has endured a slew of injuries that have left them decimated in the playmaking department. Washington is healthy and could provide the Giants with some relief on their postseason run if there were any more injuries to occur. He also provides support for the Giants’ special teams if injuries arise. Ultimately, James Washington is unlikely to make an impact for the New York Giants this postseason, but he could compete for a roster spot in 2023 if he remains on their practice squad in the summer.