WASHINGTON — The Redskins have placed the franchise tag on quarterback Kirk Cousins, setting him up to earn about $20 million for next season while still leaving open the possibility of a long-term contract.
Tuesday was the deadline for NFL teams to use a franchise or transition tag. By choosing the franchise tag, the Redskins prevent Cousins from becoming an unrestricted free agent — a status that would leave Washington with nothing in return if the player reached a deal with another team.
The franchise tag for a quarterback in 2016 is $19.953 million. The Redskins now have until July 15 to negotiate with Cousins on a longer contract.