Kirk Cousins: Latest Comments, Speculation Surrounding QB's Future with Redskins

The Washington Redskins weren't able to settle on a quarterback throughout an abysmal 4-12 2014 season. Kirk Cousins no longer wants to be a part of the instability.         

Dianna Marie Russini reported Monday what Cousins had to say about his future in the nation's capital:

Liz Clarke of the Washington Post clarified Cousins' comments:

Cousins also spoke to clarify his stance, via Zac Boyer of the Washington Times:

ESPN's Adam Caplan offered his take on Cousins' situation:

Head coach Jay Gruden commented on the team's plans at the quarterback position heading into next year, per Jeff Darlington of NFL.com:

Cousins has been buzzed about as a potential trade candidate almost since he arrived as part of the same 2012 draft class as Robert Griffin III.

Gruden hasn't exactly warmed up to Griffin. However, RG3 was a considerable draft-day sacrifice, and owner Daniel Snyder appears determined to see the former No. 2 overall pick through. That leaves Cousins mired in a backup role, when he could have the chance to start elsewhere.

Cousins added this comment on the situation:

Aside from a somewhat alarming nine interceptions in 204 pass attempts this season, Cousins did average a strong 8.38 yards per attempt and tossed 10 touchdowns.

One factor that Cousins subtly hinted at in his comments is that he's entering the last year of his rookie contract. Already bound to hit free agency after next season, he may not get a chance to shine in Washington and maximize his value if he's sitting behind Griffin.

Aside from Marcus Mariota and perhaps Jameis Winston, there aren't many surefire franchise QB prospects in the 2015 NFL draft class. Instead of losing Cousins for nothing, Washington could opt to shop him to needy teams and gain at least some compensation should it decide to go with Griffin moving forward.