The Redskins have had no shortage of issues this offseason. They first struggled with the contract situation of Kirk Cousins, who supposedly requested a trade to the 49ers and was eventually tagged by the team. Washington's inability to sign Kirk to a long term deal had NFL minds worried about what was going on with the general manager and the front office. Their fears were proven accurate when general manager Scot McCloughan was fired after an alcohol issue. Now the Redskins will need to search for a new GM. Are The Redskins in rebuilding mode even with a quality quarterback like Cousins at the helm?
Free Agent Departures.
The Redskins have already lost several players in NFL free agency. Speedy wide receiver DeSean Jackson signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Pierre Garcon, the team's leading receiver in yardage and receptions last year, left to sign with the San Francisco 49ers. The Redskins signed Terrelle Pryor to replace them, who led the Browns receivers last season. The Redskins will also have to hope that Josh Doctson can actually contribute as a sophomore.
Washington also lost some key pieces on defense. Chris Baker wasn't even given an offer. Safety Duke Ihenaco also won't be returning to the team after struggling with injuries throughout his tenure. Will the Redskins continue to lose more players on defense?
If they do, the Redskins will be forced to draft defensive players who could help fix a defense that struggled to defend the pass last year.
Still a Playoff Team?
Even though it appears the Redskins are in rebuilding mode, it would be hard to believe that they won't be competitive. Kirk Cousins is one of the better quarterbacks in the league and teams always have a chance with elite quarterbacks.
Last year, the Redskins finished 8-7-1 and would have made the playoffs if they had won the last game of the regular season. The team's roster composition will be completely different this season, and will have to mesh effectively for the Redskins to make the playoffs again. A new GM could also mean some growing pains for a team that nearly made the playoffs last year. With Cousins, the team should have a chance, even if it appears that the Redskins are in rebuilding mode.
