Redskins Place Franchise Tag On Cousins

WASHINGTON (AP) -- The Redskins have placed the franchise tag on quarterback Kirk Cousins, setting him up to earn about $20 million for next season while still leaving open the possibility of a long-term contract.

Tuesday was the deadline for NFL teams to use a franchise or transition tag. By choosing the franchise tag, the Redskins prevent Cousins from becoming an unrestricted free agent -- a status that would leave Washington with nothing in return if the player reached a deal with another team.

Cousins had a breakthrough year last season, his fourth in the league but first as a full-time starter, taking the job from Robert Griffin III late in preseason and never letting go.  Washington won the NFC East behind Cousins.
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