Friday afternoon, reports came out that Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver James Washington had requested a trade from the team:
Steelers’ WR James Washington, a former 2018 second-round pick, has approached the Steelers and requested a trade based on his limited playtime last season and so far this preseason, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 6, 2021
Today however, Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin denied these rumors per Brian Batko:
Steelers coach Mike Tomlin on @AdamSchefter's report yesterday that receiver James Washington has requested a trade. "He has not. Those unnamed sources, we don't react to or respond to. James has been great here, working, having a good camp."
— Brian Batko (@BrianBatko) August 7, 2021
For what it's worth, folks.
Hopefully this is true. Washington is a fan favorite, and definitely underrated. He is the victim of being in a very talented receiver room, but always makes the most of his opportunities. He saw a definite drop in production this past season from 2019, going from a career high 735 receiving yards, to 392, and a touchdown drop of 5 total to 3 total in respective seasons. This can be attributed to the arrival of Chase Claypool, who has eaten into Washington’s downfield targets.
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Many people have been vocal about Washington’s ability. Last season, Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger was an advocate for Washington, especially in critical game moments. Just this week, players took to Twitter to state their case for Washington to be picked up:
If you are a team and want a top tier WR trade for James Washington….. thank me later
— Dez Bryant (@DezBryant) August 6, 2021
JAMES WASHINGTON IS A STUD.. can confirm.. unbelievable football player and even better person. Dude can flat out ball https://t.co/pJKrQ5AV6z
— Devlin Hodges (@DevlinHodges10) August 6, 2021
This kind of endorsement shows that his lack of production is directly correlated to his lack of usage, which is why the trade request report didn’t seem to be unwarranted. It seemed today Washington had himself a day at training camp per reports, perhaps fueled by all the rumors swirling around:
James Washington with a monster combat catch over Justin Layne in back of the end zone in 7 shots.
— Mark Kaboly (@MarkKaboly) August 7, 2021
Good grief James Washington mosses Justin Layne. Fade from Rudolph and Washington just flew in the air, tapped both feet in for the TD.
— Nick Farabaugh (@Nick_Farabaugh) August 7, 2021
James Washington is out here to prove something today. He’s been truly uncoverable. Beats Shakur Brown this time.
— Nick Farabaugh (@Nick_Farabaugh) August 7, 2021
Whatever the case, if he keeps this up, he could definitely be in line for more playing time. Steeler Nation would definitely not be mad to see more of Washington on the field. The trade rumors not being true is definitely welcomed news. As stated before, Washington has always been a favorite of the his teammates and the fans, and has always seemed to be ready to breakout whenever the opportunity was ready. Unfortunately for him, those haven’t exactly been there in abundance for the young receiver. If these false rumors is what fuels him to dig deep and earn more playing time, then so be it. Steeler Nation is ready to see the best version of James Washington.
#SteelerNation
