Washington Redskins Kirk Cousins’ legacy has strong roots
By Ian Cummings
Redskins quarterback Kirk Cousins has taken the road less traveled in his path to success. It’s been a rather tumultuous ride in his five years as a professional football player. He’s achieved sustained success in the last two seasons. It’s a type of success that built his foundation and cultivated the roots of his legacy.
Michigan State head coach Mark Dantonio was a recipient to an interesting question during a charity event a couple of nights ago, per Land of 10’s Alex Putterman. A member of the crowd asked him this: “Who is the best player you’ve ever coached?”
His answer? Kirk Cousins.
It speaks volumes that Cousins left such a lasting impact, and yet, it isn’t all that surprising. However, five years ago, no one would have expected that the skinny two-star kid from Holland Christian would be anything close to what he is now.
Nevertheless, Cousins has exceeded expectations throughout his career. The two-star recruit amassed 66 touchdowns in his career as a Spartan, becoming the first ever to serve as a three-year captain. The 2012 fourth-round pick found his way onto the starting lineup in 2015, and since the midpoint of that season, he’s been one of the best in the league.
It’s a legacy that doesn’t seem to coincide with his roots. But football has a way of surprising. And Kirk Cousins is one of many surprises. He’s created quite a legacy thus far.
Whether he’ll continue to build his legacy with the Redskins remains to be seen. 2017 was supposed to be the crossroads. Another intersection on Cousins’ long journey. But that junction has been delayed by a second franchise tag. And now Cousins has more expectations to exceed in the upcoming season. He wants to be paid like a top quarterback. He’ll have to continue to play like one.
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Cousins has had low expectations at many times in his journey. With recent expectations growing higher and higher, he’s yet to show that he isn’t up to the challenge. His future is somewhat uncertain. But all the Redskins have to do is hear the words of Cousins’ college coach to know that his legacy belongs in Washington.