Kirk Cousins Does Not Believe He Will Be Traded Before 2017 Season
The Washington Redskins have a lot of questions about their starting quarterback Kirk Cousins. However, the possibilities of a trade involving Cousins seem to be lower than ever.
The Kirk Cousins contract negotiations have been going on ever since his first full season as a NFL starter. Replacing the out-of-favor Robert Griffin III, Cousins came in and brought the Redskins back to the postseason. He was viewed as a potential long term option, but played the 2016 season under the franchise tag. Cousins was unable to get the team back to the playoffs, and regressed a bit after a hot stretch in the middle of the season.
Because of Cousins’ late season issues, the Redskins were reluctant to commit to him long term. As a result, they once again slapped him with the franchise tag after trying to offer him a $20 million per year contract. Cousins reportedly was not happy with that offer, as he felt he was being low-balled. That led some to believe that Cousins could leave the team in the 2018 offseason, and some called for Cousins to be traded as a result. After all, the team cannot afford to lose him for just a compensatory pick.
More from Riggo's Rag
- Highlighting the best Commanders 2023 NFL Draft betting props
- 3 late Commanders rumors drawing buzz ahead of the 2023 NFL Draft
- 4 bold predictions for the Commanders 2023 NFL Draft
- Commanders News: Chase Young trade, draft day, CB riser and Sam Howell
- Bet365 VA Bonus Code – Claim $200 Guaranteed With Sign-Up Bonus
However, as the offseason has worn on, the potential for a trade has lessened. There are no real negotiations going on with any teams, and it looks like Cousins will stay for 2017. On ESPN’s NFL Live, Cousins said the following of a potential trade:
"I haven’t heard anything. I’m not expecting anything to happen. And I’m looking forward to getting back to work with my teammates."
This type of answer is expected of Cousins at this point. He is just trying to avoid becoming a headline once again. His true intentions cannot be known, but one thing is certain. The Redskins do not want to trade him, and he does not expect to be moved. For that reason, it is safe to assume that Cousins will remain a Redskin for 2017.
Next: Redskins First Round Option - Obi Melifonwu
On the surface, this is a good move for the team. At the same time, the Redskins have to demonstrate a commitment to Cousins if his success continues. If they are unwilling to pony up and pay him a long term, lucrative deal, then they will likely lose him in the offseason. It will be interesting to see if the relationship between the two parties improves as time goes on.