Sources: Redskins name Kirk Cousins starting QB for Week 1

ESPN logo
Monday, August 31, 2015

The Washington Redskins have named Kirk Cousins as their starting quarterback for their regular-season opener, team sources told ESPN's Dianna Russini.

The Redskins' coaching staff informed players on Monday morning that Cousins will start against theMiami Dolphinsin Week 1, sources told Russini.

Redskins coach Jay Gruden is expected to address the media later Monday after the team's practice.

The Redskins' decision to start Cousins comes amid turmoil surrounding quarterback Robert Griffin III, who missed Saturday's preseason game because of concussion symptoms.

Some high-ranking Redskins officials and coaches want to part ways with Griffin but are meeting resistance from the team's ownership, team and league sources told ESPN on Sunday. The Redskins even have discussed trading Griffin, according to sources.

Cousins completed 20 of 27 passes for 190 yards, a touchdown and an interception Saturday in Washington's 31-13 victory over the Baltimore Ravens.

Although Gruden said after the game that he was undecided on who the Redskins' starting quarterback would be in Week 1, Cousins said he is preparing to start against the Dolphins.

"Nobody has told me anything like that," Cousins said Saturday. "If I want to stay in this league, I've got to be ready all the time. If they want me to start, I'll do my best, but that's weeks away."

Cousins, 27, has started nine regular-season games over his first three seasons in the NFL.

Information from ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter, ESPN Redskins reporter John Keim and The Associated Press was used in this report.

Related Video