Washington Redskins: QB Options If Kirk Cousins Walks in 2017

Kirk Cousins looks like he’s going to take his chances in 2016 playing on the franchise tag contract. The Washington Redskins show no signs of disagreement.

Nobody is doubting that the two sides are interested in getting something worked out, but as always it’s a matter of dollars and cents, or “sense” in this case. Washington was thrilled with Cousins’ performance last season as their starter, putting an end to the sad and frustrating Robert Griffin III era. At the same time they aren’t letting the euphoria carry them away with matters of business.

As well as he played, they know he did it against a largely cupcake schedule. The moment he ran into a legitimate playoff team in the Packers, he crumbled. Inexperience played a part in that for sure, and the defense wasn’t much help either. Still, the team is obligated to not invest such a substantial amount a money in a player they don’t consider a sure thing.

NFL.com helped clarify the matter.

"“Rapoport notes that both sides are comfortable playing it out and proving it for another year. Cousins was phenomenal down the stretch last season, but has only started one full season. One year at $19.9 million seems plenty fair for both sides. If Cousins repeats his 2015 performance, the Redskins won’t be shy to give him a new big deal. If Cousins bombs, Washington saved itself from a potentially hamstringing contract.”"

With this scenario all but a reality, it begs the inevitable question. Say Cousins decides he doesn’t like the Redskins’ offers in 2017, or they don’t see him as their future, what are some potential options they’ll have if he decides to hit the open market? For the purposes of unknown factors, the NFL draft will be left out of this discussion for the time being given it’s not yet clear which players will come out at present. The following will be either free agent or trade possibilities.

Tyrod Taylor (FA)

It’s still not clear where the Buffalo Bills stand in their plans for Tyrod Taylor. Here’s a former backup who came in his first season as a starter and went to a Pro Bowl. He’s smart, throws accurate passes, makes good decisions and features excellent mobility. The question is whether Rex Ryan thinks he can build an offense around him. If not, perhaps some other coach might feel different.

Mike Glennon (FA)

How the Buccaneers have handled the Mike Glennon situation remains puzzling. Upon the arrival of Jameis Winston it was obvious he had no future as a possible option for the starting job. The team would’ve benefitted from making him available for trade. Instead they’ve elected to keep him as a backup. Granted, he has value there but there’s a reasonable chance he could’ve netted them a solid draft pick in return. Regardless, he’s a big body guy with a live arm who would function well in a run-heavy, play action offense.

A.J. McCarron (Trade)

One has to give A.J. McCarron credit. He did his job last season when forced into the starting lineup after Andy Dalton got hurt, getting the Cincinnati Bengals to the playoffs. He also gave them a chance to win against Pittsburgh before the defense blew it. In many ways McCarron is a lot like Cousins. His arm strength won’t blow anybody away, but he’s smart, efficient, accurate and manages the game as well as anybody.

Jimmy Garoppolo (Trade)

Teams are finally going to get a glimpse of the former 2nd round pick in action. With Tom Brady set to serve a four-game suspension, Jimmy Garoppolo will be the starter for the New England Patriots. Playing well during that span will almost certainly enhance his trade value, and since the Pats added Jacoby Brissett in the draft they might be open to such a deal. The key will be whether GM Scot McCloughan is willing to pull the trigger or if he’ll have plans to take his chances in the draft.