Washington Redskins: Kirk Cousins Gets Exclusive Franchise Tag, Now What?

The Washington Redskins placed the exclusive franchise tag on quarterback Kirk Cousins. Does that mean a long-term deal in the works?

To the surprise of no one, the Washington Redskins placed the franchise tag on quarterback Kirk Cousins for the second consecutive season, per his agent, Mike McCartney. However, to the surprise of many, Washington placed the exclusive franchise tag on Cousins. Last season, Cousins played under the non-exclusive tag, which meant other teams could negotiate with him and it would cost that team two first-rounders—a price that can be negotiated—if an agreement was reached.

So, what does this actually mean for Cousins and the Redskins? First off, maybe Washington team president Bruce Allen was onto something when he said the team's goal was to get Cousins on a long-term deal and it would get done (per ESPN). This certainly implies the Redskins want to keep Cousins.

However, the Redskins can still trade Cousins. Right now, it just means he can't openly negotiate with other teams. In this scenario, Washington holds the upper hand. Unfortunately for the Redskins, their negotiating power ends on July 15. If Allen and general manager Scot McCloughan can't get Cousins signed to a long-term deal before the deadline, they stand a very good chance of losing him after the 2017 season.

Meanwhile, Pro Football Talk reported that Washington would have to be "blown away" to trade Cousins. Specifically, an "RG3-type of haul" would be what it takes for the Redskins to consider dealing. Don't buy everything you read or hear. This is the season of misinformation and the Redskins aren't publicly going to show their cards. Washington certainly wants Cousins back, but will Allen and McCloughan meet his asking price? So far, they haven't.

It's quite possible the Redskins placed the exclusive tag on Cousins to give other teams the impression they love him, meaning it would take a king's ransom acquire his services. That would be smart. The 49ers still remain the team to watch if Cousins isn't in Washington next season or beyond. Even still, the smartest thing for Allen and Co. is to bite the bullet and pay the man. It still remains the best possible outcome for both parties.