Franchise Tag a "Great Opportunity" for Kirk Cousins, Content to Play it Out

Kirk Cousins appeared on 106.7 the Fan's Grant and Danny show this morning to discuss his youth QB camp, talk about what's going to happen this offseason, and to answer another round of questions about his potential new contract with the Washington Redskins.

The interview was light, and Cousins seemed laid back, especially when discussing the benefits a youth QB camp had on him in the 7th grade. He also discussed taking more ownership of the team, and the playcalling. And he mentioned Sean McVay's coaching style in the film room.

When he was asked about the Redskins working out a long-term deal with him he gave his normal response.

"There really is no new news. Pretty much the same story,"

And then added:

"As we've said before, it's the same point, the reason I signed the franchise tag as quickly as I did was because I felt it to be a great opportunity for me, a good contract. I really have no issue with it. In order to sign an additional contract beyond that, it would need to be a deal that just puts me in a great opportunity, a great spot because already the franchise tag does that. I'm very content and ready to go play. What's important is the coming season, the 2016 season. Fortunately I'm under contract with the Skins. I wouldn't want to be anywhere else. It's a great opportunity to get the job done."

Cousins will make almost $20 million guaranteed this season which is obviously a great opportunity for him in the NFL. What kind of deal does Cousins expect as a great(er) opportunity from the Redskins? Scot McCloughan would like to get a deal done, but seems to want to see Cousins perform on a consistent basis before paying him Top 5-10 money long-term.

The deadline for the Redskins to work out a new deal with Cousins is July 15th, and is exactly 6 weeks away. The Redskins will have to give Captain Kirk the kind of deal he is looking for, or they will face the same situation next season, but at the steeper price of $24+ million guaranteed if he has to be franchise tagged again. If Cousins plays near or greater than the level he played at the end of last season, he will be looking for the best possible opportunity from the team willing to give it to him. If he regresses, the Redskins will have the opportunity to sign him for less money.

Cousins has repeatedly expressed a desire to stay in Washington, and McCloughan has indicated that he will take care of him if he performs. Will he be able to get a deal that satisfies both sides done this year, the next, or at all?