The Washington Redskins have not enjoyed the guiding presence of a franchise quarterback in more than two decades. Fans thought that they was getting one when Washington traded three first-round picks and a second-rounder for the right to draft Robert Griffin III in 2012. But, as we all know, that plan has gone down in flames.
Griffin didn't even suit up for Washington in Week 1 as Kirk Cousins threw two inexcusable interceptions. If Sunday's performance was any indication of things to come, the Redskins will be picking in the top five when the 2016 NFL Draft rolls around. The team will undoubtedly once again be on the hunt for a franchise QB. Although draft projections this far out rarely tend to be accurate, determining how teams view certain players and where they are projected to go is a valuable exercise. As of now, WalterFootball.com predicts Washington to hold the No. 5 overall pick and select Michigan State signal-caller Connor Cook.
"The Redskins look poised to move on from Robert Griffin III after this season," Charlie Campbell wrote. "Here's a replacement.
"In 2015, Cook is 35-of-63 (56 percent) for 448 yards with four touchdowns and an interception. He completed 58 percent of his passes in 2014 for 3,214 yards with 24 touchdowns and eight interceptions.
"Cook has shown NFL evaluators that he has a big arm, pocket presence, reasonably precise throwing, and the mobility to avoid rushers and roll out. The 6-foot-4, 218-punder plays in a pro-style system and has shown steady improvement with his ability to function out of the pocket while working through his progressions. Cook does need to improve his accuracy though. He will make some amazing throws and then miss on routine passes. The senior should be able to become more accurate in 2015.
"Cook completed 59 percent of his passes in 2013 for 2,755 yards with 22 touchdowns and six interceptions. He improved throughout the season and was very impressive against Ohio State and Stanford to close out the year."
Although you'd like to see the completion percentage north of 60, Cook has impressed NFL scouts with his aforementioned skills. But, perhaps, what is most attractive about Cook to Washington is that he is unlike RGIII. Cook is a traditional pocket passer who uses his legs to escape the rush but doesn't often look to take off on the ground. While it's doubtful that head coach Jay Gruden would be around to develop him if Washington is again picking in the top five next year, Cook is exactly the type of prospect who the head coach is looking for.
As Campbell mentioned, Cook will have to improve his accuracy this season. But his physical skill and decision making are already enticing attributes. Maybe he'll end up in D.C. after all.
