Breaking News: Washington Redskins Release Chris Cooley

Chris Cooley has been released after eight seasons as a Washington Redskin, as reported on the team's Twitter feed.

Due to the emergence of Fred Davis, the Redskins made it clear that Cooley would be the No. 2 tight end. Cooley was released at this point to give him a chance to find a new NFL home as quickly as possible and potentially start elsewhere.

This divorce sees a fan favorite and two-time Pro Bowler leave the team. Although Cooley's contract was said to have no influence on this decision, he would have counted $6 million against the salary cap.

This move appears to be a win-win as the Redskins move forward with Davis as the tight end, and Cooley will get an opportunity to contribute elsewhere.

Teams that could potentially use another tight end include the Buffalo Bills, Chicago Bears and Miami Dolphins.

At age 30, Cooley might want to find a lesser role on a team that will compete for the Super Bowl. He is still one of the game's better receiving tight ends and shouldn't have a problem finding work elsewhere.

Cooley missed extensive time in 2011 due to a knee injury but is healthy and playing well at this point of the season.

He is versatile and young enough to quickly find a new home and contribute immediately.