The Facts: Jay Gruden provided a glimmer of optimism for Redskins fans freaked out about Cousins' contract situation. "I totally anticipate him coming back to the Washington Redskins," Gruden said.
Diehards Line:
The Redskins coach talked from the sidelines of the Senior Bowl where he and much of the team's staff were scouting college seniors. Gruden explained he had texted back and forth with Cousins a few times this offseason and looked forward to watching him play in the Pro Bowl. Since Gruden named Cousins starter in 2015, the quarterback had passed for more than 9,000 yards and twice broken Skins franchise passing records. As CSNMidAtlantic.com's JP Finley noted, some indications of a long term deal for Cousins land in the $120 million range, but the Washington organization also has the flexibility to use the franchise tag this season at a cost of nearly $24 million.