Washington Redskins: 3 Teams Who May Bite on Cousins Trade

The Washington Redskins may not be done manipulating the career of quarterback Kirk Cousins just yet. One bold move may remain.

It’s clearer than ever that Cousins will not be the starting moving forward for Washington. That was rammed home when they traded for three-time Pro Bowler Alex Smith from Kansas City. He will be the starter moving forward. Most at that point expected Cousins to get a green light for free agency. However, the Redskins may have one last ace up their sleeve. It’s a long shot but far from impossible.

There is a chance they could use the franchise tag for an unprecedented third-straight time on Cousins. Only this time it won’t be to keep him for another year. Instead, it will be with the intent that they hold his contract rights, allowing them to trade him to the highest bidder in hopes of recouping assets from the Smith trade. It’s a bold idea but comes with plenty of risks. Cousins could easily avoid it by simply telling teams he won’t sign a long-term extension if they deal for him.

Then again there’s always a chance. So if Washington followed through on that, who are some teams equipped to make a push?

Cleveland Browns

This is the obvious choice, at least from the Redskins’ point of view. The Browns have by far the richest stock of draft picks available including two top 5 picks and three 2nd rounders. They could easily part with a couple of them for Cousins without breaking a sweat. They also have over $100 million in salary cap space. So they’re free to meet almost any demand the QB makes in terms of a new contract. It’s a sweet setup from an economic standpoint. The problem is does Cousins want to go to Cleveland? The odds in favor of that aren’t great.

Buffalo Bills

This is a similar setup to Cleveland. The Bills also have a wealth of high draft choices at their disposal if they wish to deal. They aren’t as flush with cap space but they have enough to pay Cousins what he’d likely ask for. Also, they have the bargaining position of having just gone to the playoffs. So if winning is a big key, they can sell it. That said Buffalo isn’t exactly a hotbed for quarterbacks to thrive. Cousins might prefer someplace warmer.

Next: Kirk Cousins: Power Ranking His 5 Likeliest Landing Spots

New York Jets

Or maybe someplace more lively. It’s already been reported that Cousins has a strong connection with Jets quarterbacks coach Jeremy Bates, who may now become their offensive coordinator. The Jets also have the advantage of an extra 2nd round pick and over $70 million in cap space. They might be the most tantalizing landing spot from Cousins’ point of view. They have the money, the picks, the coaching connection and of course New York City with all its many opportunities.