2012 NFL Free Agents: 3 QBs Who Could Replace Rex Grossman

This only should happen if the Washington Redskins want to go elsewhere and/or trade down their No. 6 overall pick in the 2012 NFL Draft.

Obviously, Baylor quarterback Robert Griffin III must be Washington's first priority. However, if the Redskins cannot figure out a way to land him via draft, pursuing free agency to replace Rex Grossman is a must.

So, here are three guys our nation's capital must consider if it doesn't get RG3.

Click the link to view Free Agent Quarterbacks.

Kyle Orton

Now a journeyman, the former QB for the Chicago Bears, Denver Broncos and Kansas City Chiefs can hold up the fort for at least one season in Washington D.C.

For as much heat as Orton took in Denver when starting over Tim Tebow, he played quite well in 2009 and 2010. Each season Orton compiled over 3,600 passing yards combined for a 41-21 touchdown/interception comparison and an average rating of 87.15.

Then 2011 happened and Orton succumbed to the pressure with Tebow breathing down his neck. Well, in our nation's capital, Orton has Rex Grossman (if he re-signs) and John Beck. So in other words, not nearly as much pressure.

Add in head coach Mike Shanahan and Orton would certainly improve despite the lack of legit, well-established receivers. Then again, at least Washington has a sound defense to fall back on, much like the Chiefs.

Matt Flynn

A more mobile and accurate quarterback than given credit for, the only concern about Matt Flynn is his experience. That said, the Redskins need to at least consider him because quite honestly what do they have to lose?

With a much better defense than Green Bay had in 2011, the Redskins provide a safety outlet for Flynn if he doesn't score 35-plus points a game. Washington lost a lot of close, low-scoring affairs, so bringing in a quarterback who can spread the field can only help.

That assists in setting up the ground game and paired with the mind of Mike Shanahan, the Redskins offense will improve.

All that would be left is to approach the receiver situation via free agency or through the draft. Worst case-scenario for Washington would be to sign Flynn, trades down their pick to stock up for 2013 and select a mid-round steal.

David Garrard

According to Michael C. Wright of ESPN, former Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback David Garrard will be ready to go in the spring.

With that being said, the Washington Redskins could use the soon to be 34-year-old quarterback. His body isn't as beat up considering he didn't start 10-plus games until 2006 and never played a full season until 2008.

Garrard also got better and better as he played. 2010 was arguably his best season as he finished with a 90.5 rating, a 64.5 completion percentage and had 23 touchdowns to 15 picks.

In short, that's better than anything Rex Grossman and John Beck have done in their careers. Plus, being under the coaching of Mike Shanahan, Garrard would only develop more as he did in Jacksonville. Taking a look at the veteran QB is the least Washington can do for itself as a backup plan.

John Rozum on Twitter.