The Washington Redskins had a successful year in 2015 and heading into next season the team will be looking to bring back Kirk Cousins, who is heading into free agency. The team likely is done with Robert Griffin III and there is chance that DeSean Jackson could be released, while Alfred Morris is a target to return as a free agent.
Cousins is the main priority this offseason for the Redskins, as the team has basically moved on from Robert Griffin and his release is likely coming before the 2016 league year begins. Jay Gruden said to the Washington Post that the team wants to "build around" Cousins, while Cousins told ESPN that he wants to be where he is "wanted." Cousins had a very strong season for the Redskins with 4166 passing yards and 29 TDs while completing nearly 70 percent of his passes and now things could really just come down to contract numbers.
Gruden clearly "wants" Cousins back, but Cousins may want to test his value on the market and see how much the Redskins really "want" him back when it comes to salary. Cousins is in strong position right now and he will never be this young again and coming off of a season like this while heading into free agency and he could try and take advantage of the situation. With Griffin and his $16 million option likely getting released, Cousins is the future in DC.
The Redskins may look at releasing DeSean Jackson this offseason, as he will be making over $9 million next year after being banged up this season. Jackson showed that he is an explosive receiver that can make big plays, but the Redskins could be ready to move on after Jackson missed most of last season with injuries. CSN Washington's Rich Tandler writes that Jackson's future with the Redskins is "back up in the air" for the time being.
The Redskins likely will try to retain Morris, but the team also has options in-house if the running back signs with another team. Morris had his worst season since coming to the Redskins and rookie Matt Jones performed well through most of the season despite dealing with some fumbling issues. Morris having a down year could help his price tag and that could lead to the Redskins working out a deal with the running back.
According to ESPN.com, Morris said after the playoff loss to the Packers that his "goal" is to sign back with the Redskins in free agency. Morris said he would like to spend his career with the same team. Morris rushed for 751 yards last season after putting up at least 1000 yards in each of his first three years in Washington. Morris had a career best 1610 yards and 13 TDs as a rookie and this offseason with players like Matt Forte, Lamar Miller and Chris Ivory on the market, the best bet for Morris could be coming back to DC.
Check here for more on the Redskins, Cousins and offseason moves.
