Source: The Washington Redskins Are Emerging as a Player for Jay Cutler

The annual NFL owner's meetings will take place this weekend, and the likely focal point of conversation is going to be the status of Denver Broncos' star quarterback Jay Cutler. 

While fans of the Mile High Kids are hoping Cutler decides he wants to stay, that appears less likely by the day. 

John Keim of the Washington Examiner is reporting that the Redskins are interested in Cutler's services at quarterback, despite recent reports that Jason Campbell is the man in D.C.

"Washington has strongly denied interest in trading for Cutler, but the league source insisted they would be one of a handful of teams that would like to acquire Cutler," Keim reports.

What is unknown is the status of these "sources" that continue to approach the situation regarding Cutler. The general public are not informed as to the credibility of these sources, which leaves doubters. This particular source, however, seems fairly intent that the Redskins are indeed going to pursue Cutler.

“A minimum of five teams are motivated to do something, and maybe even seven,” the source said. “Washington is one of them. …[But] Denver will try to resolve the situation.”

Any deal for Cutler would likely have to include the Redskins' quarterback, four-year veteran Jason Campbell. Campbell has the best pedigree of any quarterback Denver could potentially acquire in exchange for Cutler, but the Broncos would likely demand more than just Campbell for Cutler straight up.

And justifiably so. 

One reason is that Jason Campbell has one year left on his contract, and according to Keim, the 'Skins have not pursued any semblance of an extension with their quarterback. 

Having recently invested over $30 million in DT Albert Haynesworth, the Redskins would likely also have to part ways with their first round pick, which they simply could no longer afford if they obtain Cutler.

Cutler in Washington makes sense on multiple levels. Not only would he be a significant upgrade over Jason Campbell, but the Broncos would benefit greatly from two first round defenders, in addition to a very solid, young quarterback.

One league source told ESPN last week that there is a "good chance" Cutler will not be a Bronco by the end of the owners meetings, and that Denver's compensation should be expected as a "quarterback on the roster and two first round picks; one this year and one next year."

Certainly Denver fans would be much more at ease with Campbell under center than either Chris Simms or Brady Quinn, and with a vastly improved defense, these could be two title contenders after this deal...if it goes down.