Report: Redskins will use franchise or transition tag on Cousins

The Washington Redskins are reportedly close to a decision regarding how they'll look to retain Kirk Cousins ahead of free agency.

Still yet to reach an agreement on a long-term contract, Washington will place either the franchise or transition tag on its starting quarterback, reports Adam Schefter of ESPN, citing a league source.

While either option would all but ensure Cousins remains in Washington, the former appears to be the more sensible solution.

An exclusive franchise tag would prevent Cousins from negotiating with other teams in free agency. A non-exclusive franchise tender would give other teams the option to work out a contract, but such a contract would require a trade of two first-round picks.

The transition tag, meanwhile, allows Cousins the opportunity to negotiate with other teams, and doesn't give the Redskins any compensation if they decide not to match another deal he signs.

Given the minor difference in guaranteed salary, the Redskins will likely opt for the security that comes with the franchise tag.

Current projections have the quarterback franchise tag set at $19.6 million, while the transition tag comes in at $17.5 million.