[FrenchSkin]

Originally Posted by metalskins

You're understanding it as if the new team holds all the cards and has the power over negotiation. They don't. In fact, there doesn't have to be any negotiation at all. If San Fran offers a contract to Cousins, the Redskins decide not to match, then if Cousins agrees and signs, San Fran has to give up their two first round picks. They don't get an option to negotiate unless the Redskins are willing to negotiate another deal. It's basically defaulted as two first round picks unless otherwise negotiated. That's how the league has set it up.

If a team says they're not giving up their first rounders, well, they don't get Kirk Cousins. It's not that the Redskins necessarily want to get rid of Cousins, but if another team is willing to outbid the 'skins, then they are not getting rid of him and leaving empty-handed.

Honestly I'm not speculating on what's likely or not, I'm just trying to fully comprehend the rules, and know what is possible so my heart is ready for this long offseason.