Theismann on Cousins: Redskins should pay him $80-$100 million

Kirk Cousins is due for a new contract. And it's going to be a big one.

This year, Cousins is carrying a $778,172 cap hit. That makes him the 23rd-highest paid player on the Redskins.

And with his first full year as a starter under his belt, and Cousins setting multiple different franchise records, he has rightfully earned a big pay raise.

Washington is sold on Cousins. He's going to be their franchise quarterback.

And Joe Theismann is sold on Cousins as well.

On 106.7 The Fan, Theismann told radio hosts Grant Paulsen and Danny Rouhier that he believes Cousins is going to get paid, and he's going to be paid big time.

"You have to sign him and the number’s between $80 (million) and $100 million,” Theismann said. “You can’t get around it. That’s where the numbers are. His performance dictates it, he’s stayed healthy.”

Theismann, of course, played his entire 12-year career with Washington. The All-Pro quarterback completed 2044 passes for 25,206 yards and 160 touchdowns.

“I think the Redskins have got themselves in a situation where, economically, they’re going to have to (step up) to the plate, ” Theismann added. “And that number has been dictated by a lot of different people. He’s better than Colin Kaepernick at 100-plus (million dollars). He’s better than Jay Cutler at 100-plus. He’s better than Matthew Stafford at 100-plus. So you’re welcome, Kirk. And I’m sorry, Dan (Snyder).”