Report: Redskins to keep RG3 as 2nd-string QB

Robert Griffin III's future remains in Washington.

The Redskins will keep the quarterback as their backup in 2015, reports NFL.com's Jeff Darlington:

In a move that will likely surprise many in the sports world, the Redskins plan to keep Griffin as their second-string quarterback, team sources say, despite the hefty risk of a potential hit that would cost the team $16.2 million in the case of injury.

Barring an unforeseen situation (Saturday) afternoon, Griffin is expected to be listed second on the depth chart behind Kirk Cousins and ahead of Colt McCoy. The decision to keep Griffin currently has the approval of general manager Scot McCloughan, coach Jay Gruden and owner Dan Snyder, a team source said.

Not everyone within the organization is happy with the decision, ESPN's Adam Schefter notes, hinting at rumors of a divide between Redskins coaches - who reportedly want Griffin gone - and ownership's steadfast support of the former second overall draft pick.

The Redskins were rumored to be shopping Griffin after they decided last week to go with Kirk Cousins as their Week 1 starter.

Related: Redskins starter thinks RG3 could be 'really good' in Philadelphia

RG3 as a backup could occur after Week 1, according to NFL Network's Albert Breer, who tweeted that Colt McCoy was told he would back up Cousins on Sept. 13.

Cutting Griffin - once thought to be the club's future - isn't a viable option for the Redskins, as he would count $6.7 million toward the team's salary cap, while being paid $3.25 million.

RG3 suffered a concussion on Aug. 20, further clouding his future with the club. He met with doctors Friday.

Here's more from Darlington:

Team sources say this was not a political decision but rather a football one. The Redskins ultimately believed, as of Saturday morning, that Griffin is the second best quarterback on the roster and should be kept on the team as a result. No doubt, it is also possible the team could dangle Griffin as trade bait this season, but if a team did want to trade for him, they would be forced to commit to those same financial risks facing the Redskins regarding Griffin's 2016 salary.