The Washington Redskins have named Kirk Cousins the starter for the 2015 season over Robert Griffin III heading into the final week of the preseason and that means Jay Gruden has benched the franchise star in RG3 and his future in DC remains unclear. GM Scot McCloughan could look at a trade, but reports have that very unlikely, while cutting Griffin could be an option.
Griffin's status was up in the air over the last couple weeks, as RG3 suffered a concussion and was likely going to be sidelined anyway. There were reports that Cousins would be named the starter for Week 1 and while that news was announced on Monday, Gruden took it an extra step. According to Pro Football Talk, Gruden named Cousins the starter for the season and said that it's "Kirk's team" moving forward, which means he basically has benched Griffin.
Dianna Russini and Adam Schefter at ESPN have reported on the situation regarding Griffin and they write that many in the organization are looking to move on from the quarterback. Schefter reports that the Redskins have "had trade conversations" with teams about Griffin, but have found "no interest" or any deals that are worth taking. Sources also added that ownership may not even allow a trade at this point.
Adding to the situation is Griffin's fifth year option, which was picked up and is guaranteed for $16.1 million next year "for injury only." Mike Freeman at Bleacher Report writes that the team could consider cutting Griffin, which would leave a $6.6 million hit on the salary cap.
Ownership is making things tough and that is not a surprise with Dan Snyder at the top of things. Snyder has made poor decisions regarding the direction of the Redskins for years and now his resistance to what Gruden wants to do could make for another tough situation. It's understandable why Snyder and some don't want to make a move, as the team gave up a ton of high draft picks for Griffin and it will be nearly impossible to get that value back now.
The Redskins gave up three first round picks and Mike Freeman is reporting one exec saying Griffin is getting offers for a "fifth- or sixth-round pick." Griffin also showed his potential as a rookie while bringing the Redskins to the playoffs and winning the rookie of the year award and he showed that he could be a star. But over the past few years there have been rumblings
The Redskins situation with Griffin has been a mess for a long time, including dating back to his recovery from injuries following his rookie season. Griffin has not been consistent over the past couple years and with constant sniping in the media, stories about Griffin's future and fractures within the Redskins franchise, this looked like the only possibility for this season. Gruden has long been considered a coach that likes a pocket QB and Griffin does not really have the skills that suits an offense designed by Gruden.
Check here for more on the Griffin situation, potential for a trade or release and more on Cousins.