Robert Griffin III is out as quarterback of the Washington Redskins, despite the owner’s love affair with the multi-talented, demoralized passer. And this time it seems permanent.
Kirk Cousins officially was tabbed Monday as the starter — for the entire season, not just Week 1.
“It’s Kirk’s team,” coach Jay Gruden said.
Griffin, who is recovering from a concussion suffered during the preseason, is not even guaranteed the backup job. Gruden said he could slip to third string behind Colt McCoy.
The backdrop is an explosive ESPN report from the weekend, stating high-ranking football authorities with the Redskins want to part ways with Griffin — even conducting trade talks with “a handful” of teams — but owner Dan Snyder was resisting from his perch in the owner’s box.
Griffin has regressed every season since being selected No. 2 overall in 2012 and suffering a serious knee injury in the playoffs following his rookie season.
ESPN reported there is no trade interest around the league in Griffin, and football decision-makers want to demote him to second-string at best, cut him at worst. But it is unclear whether Snyder would sign off on such a move if new GM Scot McCloughan were to present it.
“The door is not shut on Robert Griffin,” Gruden said Monday.
Griffin’s contract is guaranteed for $16.1 million in 2016 for injury. Plus, if Griffin returns from this recent concussion and he suffers a new injury, the Redskins cannot cut him until he’s cleared to play again, according to ESPN.
Cousins started for Griffin in Saturday night’s preseason win over the Ravens, going 20-for-27 for 190 yards with a touchdown and an interception.