The Washington Redskins continue to search for answers as they sit at the bottom of the NFC East with a 2-5 record. This is not how Jay Gruden saw things unfolding this season especially when players like DeSean Jackson were added to the roster. However, injuries and issues at the quarterback positions have halted any consistencies the team is trying to achieve. With Colt McCoy inserted as the starter for the time being, could a return of Robert Griffin III be what Washington needs to get back on track?
The Redskins got a welcomed sight on the practice field when Griffin stepped out and began taking individual drills with the team. He took first-team reps while McCoy took reps with the second team and then now-third-stringer Kirk Cousins. Gruden is making sure to downplay any idea that Griffin will be ready to play come Monday Night Football when the team has a very important game against the Dallas Cowboys. Griffin has not been seen since he dislocated his ankle in Week 2 and Gruden is making sure the Redskins are cautious with a return.
Robert has to be honest with himself in how he's feeling," Gruden said, via ESPN.com. "He has to get out there and run around. We'll give him more this week and see where he's at. But can he cut without pain? Can he run without pain? Is he full speed? Is it sturdy enough? Does he play good with the brace on? There's a lot of issues that still go into making him the starter or seeing if he's ready or not. If he says yes, then I have to feel comfortable putting Robert out there in the game."
Gruden has been quick to say that right now, McCoy will be the starter against the Cowboys pending the health of Griffin. The third string quarterback was inserted into the lineup after Cousins was benched. He managed to get a touchdown and a last-minute scoring drive to setup the game-winning field goal. Cousins had yet to get Washington a win in his tenure as starter. Gruden believes McCoy has earned the starting spot for the time being.
"He does have great intangibles," Gruden said. "He's a very good competitor. I feel like he'll get us in the right play and make the right throw. I've always liked his demeanor. He has the intangibles to be a good quarterback. He has a great opportunity Monday."
There is urgency right now with the Redskins which is why Griffin could play if healthy. Does he offer the team the best chance at winning or should they continue with the hot hand of McCoy against the division-leading Cowboys?
