The Washington Redskins' relationship with current quarterback Robert Griffin III has been a bumpy ride, with RGIII constantly uncertain about his job security. This offseason, that hasn't changed and multiple hints that the 'Skins would grab Oregon Ducks prospect Marcus Mariota if he falls to No. 5 hasn't helped quell speculation.
One AFC scout believes the Redskins' chatter is just a ruse to entice teams interested in Mariota to make a deal with them. "They're trying to create leverage to get someone to [trade] up," the source told Yahoo Sports.
The Redskins certainly need an improvement in production from last year's output. Griffin III was middling before he injured his knee and missed a chunk of time. He ended 2014 with only four passing touchdowns and six interceptions. He made just seven starts, and only rushed for 176 yards and one touchdown. His replacements, Kirk Cousins and Colt McCoy, were no great shakes in his stead.
Still, all three of them are under contract heading into the 2015 season, so drafting a quarterback as high as No. 5 overall seems unlikely. In addition, Mariota's scheduled visit to the Redskins has been cancelled thanks to scheduling issues, so although they've seen him work out at the Combine and at his pro day, no pre-draft meeting will take place.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are widely expected to select Jameis Winston of Florida State first overall, and while the Tennessee Titans look like they need a quarterback and pick second, there haven't been strong indications they're leaning toward Mariota.
The next two teams, the Jacksonville Jaguars and Oakland Raiders, already have young quarterbacks in place, so it's conceivable Mariota will be available at No. 5. A number of teams are reportedly interested-namely Washington's NFC East rival the Philadelphia Eagles-so feigned desire for Mariota might net them a larger haul.
The Redskins were in a similar position two years ago when they surrendered a boatload of picks to the St. Louis Rams so they could pick Griffin III. Now, they may be seeing an opportunity to recoup what they've lost.
[Yahoo]
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