The Washington Redskins are heading into the 2016 NFL season with high expectations after an impressive 2015 campaign. They were unable to knock off the Green Bay Packers in the playoffs, but they still proved that they are a team to be taken seriously once again in the NFC playoff picture.
Jay Gruden has a roster that is more than capable of competing for a second straight NFC East division title. After seeing Tony Romo go down with yet another injury, the path to a division championship is a little bit easier. Neither the New York Giants nor Philadelphia Eagles poises as much of a threat to the Redskins as the Dallas Cowboys are capable of.
Kirk Cousins is heading into his second season as the clear-cut starter in Washington. He was unable to get a long-term extension done with the Redskins this offseason, which means that he will be playing with something to prove once again. That could mean yet another big season for the former Michigan State star.
It will be an entertaining season to say the least for the Redskins in 2016. They have the potential to make a run in the playoffs if they live up to their full potential, but that is far from a sure thing.
All of that being said, what five last second predictions can be made for the Redskins’ 2016 season?
Kirk Cousins Will Live Up to the Hype and More
After the Redskins decided to release former No. 2 overall pick Robert Griffin III, Cousins has to be feeling very good about his place with the team. He knows that he is the starting quarterback and that the franchise’s playoff hopes ride on his shoulders. Cousins will live up to the hype this season and then some to prove his worth.
Josh Doctson Will Be In the Offensive Rookie of the Year Conversation
Washington made Josh Doctson their No. 22 overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft this offseason. He is a playmaker at the wide receiver position and will add a much needed dynamic to the Redskins. Doctson will quickly become one of Cousins’ favorite targets and will be in the Offensive Rookie of the Year conversation.
Josh Norman Records at Least Seven Interceptions
One of the big needs that the Redskins had coming into the 2016 season was a lockdown cornerback. Josh Norman decided to hold out from his franchise tag with the Panthers, and they let him go. Washington swooped in to sign him and will get at least seven interceptions from him this season.
Washington Will Win the NFC East Division Once Again
Even though the Cowboys are hoping to make a run at the division title, the Redskins are going to come away with their second straight. Romo’s injury has complicated Dallas’ chances to make a run at the division. Washington is the best team on paper in the division, and they will take the title.
The Redskins Will Win at Least One Playoff Game
There is no question that the Redskins have rebuilt their roster the right way and should be proud of their work. It will all pay off this season with a playoff win. Washington hasn’t been viewed as a serious playoff contender in quite a few years, but they are finally back to that level.
Expect to see the Redskins live up to the hype and give their fans even more reason to be excited. They could end up folding under the pressure, but that doesn’t seem likely at this point in time.
Do you think the Washington Redskins will win the NFC East division title once again this season? Will they win at least one playoff game? Let us know your thoughts in the comment box below!
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