Dave Sweet

WMAL.com

WASHINGTON — (WMAL) The Washington Redskins gave quarterback Kirk Cousins their non-exclusive franchise tag on Tuesday.

The non-exclusive tag pays Cousins $20 million for the coming season. Contrary to the exclusive franchise tag, teams will have the right to bid on and even sign Cousins, but would have to trade two first round picks once the deal is inked. The Redskins save about $5 million dollars this year by allowing other teams to negotiate with Cousins.

WMAL Redskins analyst Trevor Matich says the move is a savvy one by the Redskins.

“I think it’s a good deal,” said Matich. “I don’t know that another team would want to give up two first-round draft picks for Cousins.”

Matich says the Houston Texans, Cleveland Browns and Kansas City Chiefs are possible suitors for Cousins, and could potentially drive his price way up if a bidding war emerges. All of this, according to Matich, is part of Cousins equally-savvy negotiating strategy.

“If I were Kirk Cousins’ agent, unless the Redskins knocked me out with a contract offer, I would play under this franchise tag, because I think Cousins is only going to get better.”

(Photo: redskins.com)