Report: Redskins intend to sign Kirk Cousins to contract extension

The Washington Redskins are planning on signing quarterback Kirk Cousins to a long-term contract extension, according to CBS Sports' Jason La Canfora.

Washington is preparing to use its franchise tag on Cousins if necessary, per La Canfora. If the Redskins used the tag on Cousins, he would be paid upwards of $18.5 million.

Cousins is slated to become an unrestricted free agent at the end of the season. The 27-year-old completed a league-high 69.2 percent of his passes for 18 touchdowns against 11 interceptions through 13 games.

Washington is in contention for the NFC East title, currently stuck in a three-way tie with the New York Giants and Philadelphia Eagles for the division lead.

If Cousins steers the Redskins to the playoffs, it may become a difficult proposition to let the Michigan State product enter free agency.

Cousins was selected by the Redskins in the fourth round of the 2012 NFL Draft.