"The interview ended and Chris Cooley did, well, what Chris Cooley does. Which means something a little different. This time it involved shaving off the stubble on his face as part of a promotion, surrounded by cameras. Another time in camp he helped a fan with a marriage proposal.

But the Cooley that Washington needs him to be is the one he was on the field for his first six seasons. That's before a broken ankle ended his season after seven games in 2009. And while Fred Davis emerged in his absence, it must be noted that Cooley made the Pro Bowl in 2007 and '08. And in a dreadful season he was on pace for more than 64 catches when he was hurt.

"It was very hard for me to sit out and watch last year," Cooley said. "I can't wait to get out and start playing."

Nor can the Redskins wait to see him this season. With major questions at receiver, aside from Santana Moss, Washington needs receiving threats. Cooley and Davis can offset some of the problems because they're both dangerous. And Washington plans to incorporate both into the game plan. Just remember: Mike Shanahan's credo is to maximize strengths and minimize weaknesses."