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PITTSBURGH – Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver James Washington did not deny making a request for a swap when speaking to the media on Wednesday, his first public comments since allegedly asking the organization an exchange.
“It’s a private conversation,” he said. “As far as I’m happy in Pittsburgh, I love it here. Who wouldn’t be happy to play football for a job? I come to work every day with a smile on my face. I can’t wait to be here with my guys. – joke, laugh, play a sport that I like. “
A source told ESPN’s Adam Schefter that Washington first approached the team about a post-Hall of Fame trade, citing his limited playing time last season and so far in the preseason.
Coach Mike Tomlin has denied Washington made a request when asked about it on August 7.
“He didn’t,” Tomlin said. “These anonymous sources, we don’t react or respond. James has been great here, working and having a good camp.”
When asked if he had approached the coaching staff about an increased role in the offense, Washington admitted those conversations had taken place.
“We talked about it,” he said. “But I’m just trying to do what I can. I just want to show people that I can be available and play whatever games they want me to do. Just do what I have to do.”
Offensive coordinator Matt Canada, however, previously claimed Washington had not told him about it.
“James is awesome,” said Canada. “He comes to work every day. He’s a great guy. He hasn’t said a word to me, he just plays hard every day and trains hard every day. I’m a huge fan of James. Truly. “
The former 2018 second-round pick missed the Steelers’ second preseason game with a lower-body injury and played 26 snaps in the Hall of Fame game with just two targets.
Washington was more involved in Wednesday’s rainy practice at Heinz Field, taking reps with the first team as Chase Claypool was sidelined with an ankle injury sustained late in Tuesday’s practice.
“With Chase down, I worked with the 1s a bit more,” Washington said. “All I can continue to do is capitalize on and get the most out of every rep that I am in.”
A year ago, Washington’s involvement in the offense plummeted as he recorded just 30 catches on 56 targets for 392 yards – up from 44 receptions on 80 targets for 735 yards in the 2019 season. Washington has scored five touchdowns in 2020 compared to three in 2019.
The decline in Washington’s use has also not gone unnoticed by other players. Dez Bryant, another Oklahoma State product Washington’s talent guarantor during the Hall of Fame game.
Washington may have more opportunities to enter the field in the Canadian offensive because the ploy often shifts receivers and turns them into different roles.
“I just feel like it makes me a little more balanced,” Washington said. “That way, I can’t just be labeled as an outside receiver, because that can limit you to games. If someone falls, I feel like I can just come in and take over. But whatever. either, I think it helps me all around. “
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