Clayton: Redskins need veteran and rookie QB for 2019

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Photo credit Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

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The Washington Redskins are currently stuck in quarterback purgatory.

After losing starter Alex Smith to a devastating leg injury and multiple complications, they are in need of a short-term fix at quarterback. And with Smith's football future in doubt and his high salary cap hit, they're in need of a long-term fix, too. 
NFL analyst and The Washington Post columnist John Clayton said the Redskins should sign a veteran and draft a quarterback this offseason, as well.
"I think they need to bring in a quarterback, obviously they can't bring in Nick Foles, Joe Flacco, they're gonna be too expensive," Clayton told The Sports Junkies Thursday. "But I think you also have to start to look at drafting a quarterback, too." 
Clayton doesn't offer any name for who the Redskins might draft, but mock drafts have linked Washington with Heisman Trophy winner Kyler Murray. 
The Redskins, who lost both Smith and backup Colt McCoy to leg breaks, started Mark Sanchez, who failed to impress in two games, and Josh Johnson, who showed some flashes, at quarterback during a disappointing 2018 season. Washington only has Smith and McCoy still under contract for 2019.

Because of Smith's advanced age (he turns 35 in May), Clayton said there is a concern he may not ever return to his full speed and the Redskins must plan for that possibility. 

"I think you have to do it two-fold," Clayton said. "I don't have the confidence to go with Colt McCoy as the opening day starter. It's nice to keep him as the backup and all those things, but I think they need to go out and, I don't know if it's Tyrod Taylor, that might be an option or somebody else."

"But they need to go get a veteran and then get a rookie, just in case Alex isn't gonna be there," Clayton said.

In December, 106.7 The Fan's Craig Hoffman said McCoy could be the Redskins starter in 2019.

For Clayton, the most important thing for the Redskins to do know is not rush any decision.

"They can't rush the decision. The first thing is you get to March and you see, OK, what veteran can you go get? And then you wait to see where Alex is as far as his recovery," Clayton said. "You have to look draft and you have to look veteran."

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