FRISCO, Texas – The Cowboys confirmed that they have been in contact with Brice Butler – though it's still unclear what the result of that communication will be.
Word surfaced over the weekend that the Cowboys might have interest in bringing their former receiver back, and coach Jason Garrett said as much during his Monday afternoon press conference after the win against the Giants.
"Yeah, we have talked to Brice and we'll see what his availability is as we go forward, if we want to make that decision to bring him back to our team," Garrett said.
It's a bit of a curious situation, though, because the Cowboys' game plan regarding Butler isn't immediately clear. They aren't currently dealing with any injuries at the receiver position, and Garrett suggested Monday that they wouldn't release one of their current receivers to make room for him – if they even sign him at all.
"Just to be deeper there. If he's available, he's someone we like," he said. "He's done some good things for us and again we'll make that decision in the next day or so."
Seven receivers is a bit unusual, but it wouldn't be unprecedented. Butler showed a penchant for big plays during his time with the Cowboys, as he caught 43 passes for 794 yards during his three years with the team – an average of 19 yards per reception.
Butler signed on with the Cardinals during free agency in the spring, but he was released at the end of training camp.
"We wanted to keep him last year when he signed in Arizona. But now he's available and you're always trying to look for ways to improve your team," Garrett said.
It's possible the Cowboys could add Butler without having to tinker with their wide receiver depth. Garrett said he's hopeful that Xavier Woods can return to practice this week after sitting out the last month with a hamstring injury.
