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The lengths the Washington Redskins went to draft quarterback Robert Griffin III with the second pick in the 2012 NFL draft have been well documented. However, the Redskins raised a few eyebrows when they selected Michigan State quarterback Kirk Cousins (above) in the fourth round of the 2012 NFL draft. Why draft another quarterback when Redskins’ fans expect Griffin III to be their franchise quarterback for the next decade?
Instead of selecting Cousins, Washington should have used the pick to add depth to their offensive line. Or it could have been used to add depth to a porous Redskins’ secondary. Considering Washington’s inconsistency at placekicker before the start of the 2012 NFL season, the Redskins could have used the pick on a placekicker.
Instead, Redskins’ general manager Bruce Allen and head coach Mike Shanahan used the pick on Cousins. It proved to be the right decision, considering Griffin III suffered a concussion during Washington’s 24-17 Week Five loss to the Atlanta Falcons.
Griffin III vows to play Week Six against the Minnesota Vikings, but he must comply with NFL protocol regarding the preparation of concussed players. If the NFL feels he has satisfactorily completed that process, he still has to get approval from Shanahan to play.
If Griffin III can’t play against the Vikings, Washington will start Cousins at quarterback. He finished the game in relief of Griffin III against Atlanta, providing mixed results. While Cousins did throw a touchdown pass, he also threw two interceptions late in the contest that sealed the victory for Atlanta.
Washington Redskins’ fans can’t expect Cousins to fill Griffin III’s shoes. Sprinting out of the pocket and exhibiting sub 4.3 second speed in the 40 yard dash isn’t Cousins’ game. If the opportunity presents itself, Cousins needs to play within his own capabilities and manage the game. If he can do that, it will go a long way towards proving that the Washington Redskins’ quarterback position is in safe hands during Griffin III’s absence.
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