Kirk Cousins, QB, Washington Redskins
With Cousins in charge, Washington returns to the playoffs for the first time since 2012 and seek its first postseason victory since 2005.
What’s up: Before this season, Cousins became famous for words uttered by someone famous. Former Broncos and Redskins coach Mike Shanahan insisted that Cousins would blossom into an elite NFL quarterback. Shanahan was right. Don’t believe it? Digest the statistics. Cousins carved up defenses this season, passing for 23 touchdowns and rushing for four TDs while throwing just three interceptions over the past 10 games.
Background: Cousins wasn’t supposed to be in this situation. Robert Griffin III, a former Heisman Trophy winner, owned Washington. He represented the future — until he blew out his knee, lost his job and lost the confidence of two head coaches. Jay Gruden stuck with Cousins, who provided stability, if not sanity, to a franchise mired in turmoil. Cousins grew into the role, rallying teammates with his energy and effort. And when he yelled “You like that?” after a Week 4 victory, it inspired the Redskins.
Renck’s take: Pay attention to Cousins. If he wins a playoff game, his price is going to go up. He is the best quarterback in a free-agent class that includes the Broncos’ Brock Osweiler. If Cousins asks for $16 million to $18 million per season, it could drive up Osweiler’s price. A three-year contract worth $35 million sounds about right for Osweiler, but it takes only one team to set the market. Cousins could pull up the entire class with a strong postseason.