The Washington Redskins are likely to put the exclusive franchise tag on quarterback Kirk Cousins precisely because they want to be able to stop talking about potential trades for the quarterback. If that was indeed the goal, then it appears that the goal was not met.

Not long after the Redskins put that franchise tag on their starting quarterback of the last few years, a new rumor started that would involve Cousins. The trade rumor was especially

The trade rumor was especially interesting because it involved three teams in Washington, the Dallas Cowboys, and the San Francisco 49ers.

Tony Romo coming to the Washington Redskins?

Ian Rappaport was the first to float this particular trade idea and it should be pointed out, no one could confirm the Redskins were even thinking about doing this deal. According to the NFL

According to the NFL reporter, Washington would send Cousins to the 49ers, who would send draft picks to the Cowboys and the 'Skins would get Tony Romo.

The first question that has to be answered is why the Washington Redskins would have any interest in this trade. Kirk Cousins is certainly younger than Romo and he's also healthier.

This seems like a deal that would help the Cowboys and 49ers, but the Redskins would be getting the short end of the stick.

Why would the Washington Redskins do this deal?

The question has to be asked what the end game for Washington would be in this scenario. Tony Romo hasn't managed to get through a 16 game season for quite some time.

The Redskins know this better than most because they are the ones who kept squaring off against a Cowboys team that didn't have the pro bowler under center.

While Redskins fans are not entirely enamored with Cousins as the quarterback, he has played well enough to keep the team above water.

Washington might have disappointed a bit when it comes to their 8-7-1 record. It doesn't seem as though the Washington Redskins are going to be able to improve on that performance if Tony Romo is the replacement. At this point in time, it's hard to imagine Romo has much left in the tank.