Kirk Cousins Pick: Redskins Pull Slight 'Shocker' Drafting MSU QB in 4th Round

When the Redskins selected Robert Griffin III with the second-overall pick, it was officially declared that the Heisman Trophy winner would be the next guy to bring a Super Bowl to Washington. Griffin was undoubtedly the new face of Washington and the Redskins.

Equipped with two fourth-round picks on Saturday, the Redskins decided to use their first on a surprising position. Despite big needs along the offensive line and defensive secondary, Mike Shanahan and the Redskins selected Michigan State quarterback Kirk Cousins.

The crazy talk of a quarterback controversy in Washington will likely ensue, but that’s expected amongst fans and media. Although Cousins has received praise for his attitude, work ethic and potential as an NFL starter, there’s no questioning his place as a back-up with the Redskins.

I was that guy slamming the table for the selection of an offensive lineman with their first fourth-rounder, but the Redskins seemingly adopted the BPA strategy. From watching successful teams use the same strategy and earn dividends, it’s very hard to argue with the Cousins selection.

The most likely scenario following this pick is that the Redskins will enter the 2012 season with two rookies at the quarterback position. While the Redskins could cut a fourth-rounder like Cousins, it’s highly unlikely. Does anyone expect John Beck to outperform Cousins?

If the Shanahans are comfortable with teaching the offense to two rookies this summer and then comfortably entering the season with them, so be it. At the very least, Cousins will develop into a solid and reliable back up that brings it everyday in practice and serves as positive leader in the locker room.

Each quarterback will understand their role in Washington and Cousins will serve as the necessary fire behind Griffin to keep him performing at the top of his game.

What you really pray for as a Redskins fan, is for Cousins to become something like what Kevin Kolb was in Philadelphia. After watching what the Eagles have been able to do with all they acquired from Arizona in exchange for a second-string quarterback, it’d be an incredible haul.

Perhaps Shanahan the genius is at it again?