The Washington Redskins gave up on Kirk Cousins -- and did so at a steep price. It makes sense to trade for Alex Smith, knowing Cousins was not going to sign a long-term deal with Washington. Or, at the least, the Redskins knew it was unlikely and costly if it did happen.
But trading for Smith comes at a cost as well. A steep one. The third-round pick isn't bad; Washington will get a pick in the same round in 2019 as compensation for when Cousins signs with someone in free agency.