Wide receiver Kelley Washington underwent a successful tryout on Thursday and was immediately offered a contract. However, the 30-year-old has been in the league long enough that he didn't want to rush into any situation. After discussing with his family and evaluating his options, Washington realized that coming to Philadelphia was "the best situation" for him.

A third-round pick of the Bengals in 2003, Washington enjoyed his best season offensively last year with the Ravens as he caught 34 passes for 431 yards and scored two touchdowns. But Washington is proud to make his mark on special teams, which is the reason he's lasted in the league for so long.

"I came in thinking I was going to be a No. 1 or a No. 2 receiver, but it doesn't always happen like that," Washington said. "The quicker you figure that out, the longer you can play. Not everybody can be a No. 1 or a No. 2 receiver. Most of the time, the players who play in this league for a long time understand the major impact special teams has and how important it is on the team. When you have a guy who can play special teams and also contribute offensively, usually those guys play a long time. I really take pride in not just being a receiver, but an athlete who can go out and do whatever's asked."

Washington also played for the Patriots in 2007 and 2008. He led the Patriots with a career-high 18 special teams tackles in 2007. For his seven-year career, the 6-3, 217-pound Washington has played in 83 career games (eight starts), while recording 107 receptions for 1,327 yards and 11 touchdowns. He said that he's a "lunch pail guy, just coming to work" and he's looking to "kick butt" on special teams.

-- Posted by Chris McPherson, 6:15 p.m., July 31