Robert Griffin III is the starting quarterback for the Washington Redskins in 2015. That is not up for debate heading into training camp while OTAs continue on. Head coach Jay Gruden has made it clear that right now Washington is focused on moving on with Griffin has his future is secure for the next two seasons after his fifth-year option was picked up. However, Kirk Cousins is not listening to that kind of talk as the quarterback remains focused on improving and impressing.
Cousins still has the desire to be a starter. Last year, his brief stint under center featured more interceptions than touchdowns as he was eventually benched in favor of Colt McCoy. Now the backup has returned entering the final year of his contract and he is out to prove that he is still a solid option for the Redskins or any other team.
"I think it's just my job to put my head down, keep working and give them reason to play me," Cousins said, via Liz Clarke of the Washington Post. "And if they're not going to play me, then to give them reason to say, 'We're excited if this guy ever does get in a game.' That's the best chance I have to be successful: Put my head down keep working hard, put a lot of things on tape that give them reason to want to have me out there."
Cousins' stock dropped after last year's struggles. As he was once a name continuously tossed around in trade rumors, nothing came of them. Instead, NBC Washington reported that there was not any interest in trades for Cousins nor McCoy and they would both remain on the team. This upcoming season is crucial for the quarterback if he wants to see more years in the NFL. Right now Cousins is battling for the backup job. Given Griffin's injury history, he stands a chance of getting on the field if he can win the spot.
"Coaches are paid to decide where people stack up on the depth chart," Cousins said. "But it's my job to go out on the field and play well. I think if I do that, then I can be at peace with whatever happens."
Several players on the Redskins' roster are in the same position as Cousins. Alfred Morris is competing with Matt Jones for the starting spot. The running back will be in the final year of his deal. He told the Washington Post that he is not thinking about his contract status at the moment and is instead focused on improving. Trent Williams and Terrance Knighton are also in similar positions.
