Kirk Cousins is in need of a bounce-back game and facing the defending Super Bowl champions is not the game to get it in. The Washington Redskins quarterback was given a lot of hype and praise after he appeared very impressive in a game against the Philadelphia Eagles. However, he followed that up with four interceptions against the New York Giants. Cousins will need all of the help he can get from his teammates which might include the return of two tight ends.
The Redskins have been awaiting the return of Jordan Reed after the tight end suffered a hamstring injury that has kept him off the field. Reed returned after the loss to the Giants and began practicing with the team. However, he has not consistently been on the field, sitting out Sunday's practice, and ESPN's John Keim is reporting that Reed is very likely ruled out for Monday Night Football against the Seahawks.
Washington is trying to remain patient with their dynamic tight end. Bringing him back onto the field could cause further injury so if it looks like Reed is not at full strength, he will be inactive. That means that Niles Paul will once again take over starting duties at the position. The backup tight end had been out with a concussion, but practiced two days straight with no setbacks so the Redskins are prepared to give him the start.
The remaining offensive weapons of Washington should also be available at full speed. DeSean Jackson and Alfred Morris have both been removed of the injury report along with Roy Helo Jr. Having the team's playmakers at full strength will be crucial for Cousins and his game against the Seahawks.
Keim went on to report that Robert Griffin III has shown improvement in his dislocated ankle. He has been stretching with his team on the field before going inside to continue his rehab, but head coach Jay Gruden remains optimistic that Griffin could return on time which will certainly draw the quarterback competition back into the picture. Griffin was struggling before the injury. Cousins is struggling now. What happens if neither quarterback put forth a quality season for Washington? The Redskins will have more drama than they care to admit.