The non-exclusive tag will pay Cousins $19.95 million, the highest base salary of any quarterback in the NFL next season. Once he signs, all other teams will lose the right to give Washington two first-round picks to sign the 27-year-old quarterback.
MORE: Boom or bust free agents | Pick-prone Cousins stayed the course
The fourth-year quarterback threw for 4,166 yards in 2015, with 29 touchdowns and just 11 interceptions. He also completed 69 percent of his passes en route to the Redskins’ first playoff berth since 2012.
Neither party appears eager to sign a long-term deal anytime soon, making 2016 the ultimate prove-it season for Cousins.
