The Washington Redskins have wrapped up the NFC East and now with the focus on the playoffs, the team is preparing to reward the players that helped get them there. After getting named the starter over Robert Griffin III, there is no question Kirk Cousins took advantage of the opportunity and improved every week with the Redskins. The quarterback is a big reason why Washington is headed to the postseason and now the Redskins must determine just how much he is worth in the future.
There is no doubting that the Redskins intend to re-sign Cousins. The quarterback is currently playing out the final year of his rookie deal and Washington is well aware they would be wise to keep him around. According to the Washington Post, the issue not whether or not to keep Cousins, the issue is just how much the team plans on paying him. Over the last nine weeks, the quarterback has thrown for 2,570 yards and 20 touchdowns with just three interceptions. A contract for the quarterback is a top priority in Washington.
"A normal guy could have gone in the tank," coach Jay Gruden said, via ESPN.com. "But he kept his composure, just like he has all year. Just like he has done his whole career. I'm very proud of him and the whole team. Any time you name a starting lineup, you want them all to succeed like we do with everybody, but Kirk has taken his position and done well."
Of course extending Cousins means Griffin is likely out of the mix. According to Ian Rapoport of NFL.com, the Redskins will part ways with Griffin at the end of the season allowing both teams to move forward. Griffin's contract is only guaranteed for injuries so he would be an easy release for the team. That would make way for Cousins to make his mark for the future.
Who will join Cousins in 2016? A once-rumored release of DeSean Jackson is not happening while Jordan Reed is the tight end of the future along with Pierre Garcon who is still signed for one more season. What about Alfred Morris? The running back has had a roller coaster few years since a breakout rookie season and now he is in the final year of his contract. The Washington Post reported prior to the season that the Redskins had discussions about a new deal with Morris, but never signed anything. It remains to be seen if the offer still remains. Neither Morris nor Matt Jones have had great seasons as consistency has been an issue. If Morris comes out with big contract demands, his future could be elsewhere in the NFL.
