Last year, the Washington Redskins came into the season with a sense of security. They had just traded for Alex Smith formerly of the Kansas City Chiefs and signed him to a four-year, $94 million deal. Their defense was excellent the season prior, and it seemed like they could be a playoff team.
However, they were struck with a terrible injury to Smith. Just a few weeks into the season, Smith broke his right leg during the third quarter against the Houston Texans. He was rushed to the hospital for emergency surgery. He had completely shattered his fibula and tibia.
The Redskins lost their position as the division leader in the NFC East and fell off the table. They finished the season with a 7-9 record, failing to make the playoffs.
After Smith went out with his horrific injury, the Redskins had to replace him with very subpar quarterbacks. Colt McCoy, Mark Sanchez, and then AAF standout Josh Johnson. The fact they were able to even win seven games is a testament to their defense. If they had Smith healthy, it's very likely that they would've made.
It's very likely that Smith's career isn't over. A few decades ago, he wouldn't have a chance of even coming back. Thanks to modern medicine and technology, Smith has the chance to come back just after one season of rebab.
The Redskins desperately need to find a short term replacement for Smith. However, they are not many options for them to look at. The draft isn't a viable option. Even though there are talents like Dwayne Haskins, that would mean giving up on Smith for the long term. Both Nick Foles and Teddy Bridgewater will likely get multi-year deals.
The best fit for the team would be picking up Ryan Tannehill.
Tannehill only played 11 games for the Dolphins last season. He threw for only 1,979 with 17 touchdowns and nine interceptions. His completion percentage was an average 64.2 percent, and his quarterback rating was 33.1.
The Redskins will have a shade over $17 million in cap room, per Over the Cap. They may have to do some maneuvering, but bringing him, it shouldn't be a problem. His contract is large, but in the short term, it's worth the risk. Tannehill's offensive skillset is a lot like Smith's. He'll fit right into the offensive scheme.
Dan Snyder and company need to find a solution to their quarterback dilemma. Bringing in Tannehill would allow them to remain competitive and have consistent production from under center.
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