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Redskins should sit RGIII, start Kirk Cousins, Chris Canty says

Robert Griffin III and the Washington Redskins' offense have struggled mightily this season to a 3-8 record. In Monday's 27-6 loss to the 49ers, the Redskins failed to score a touchdown. It was the first time in Griffin's career -- college or pro -- that he failed to lead his offense to a TD.

It's clear that Griffin isn't the same player who dazzled and won Offensive Rookie of the Year honors in 2012, following his offseason reconstructive knee surgery. But is it time for the 'Skins to sit RGIII and play backup Kirk Cousins? Niners linebacker Ahmad Brooksbelieves so, and one prominent NFL veteran echoed the sentiment Tuesday.

"It's clear that RGIII does not have the explosion that he had during his rookie campaign. ... I think they should sit him down," Baltimore Ravens defensive lineman Chris Canty said on NFL Network's "Around the League Live." "It's clear that he's not able to run the offense at the high level that he did during his rookie year. I think Kirk Cousins gives them the best opportunity to win football games right now."

"So much of (RGIII's) game is predicated on his agility, his elusiveness and his ability to be able to separate from defenders," Canty continued. "He can't do that and that knee is not 100 percent healthy. This is his second reconstruction on that same knee. I think it takes a little more time for that guy to develop and be healthy in order to put himself in good position to help his team win."

Cousins started one game for the Redskins in 2012 and was excellent in the contest, leading the team to a win over the Browns. But perhaps more impressive was his relief appearance against the Ravens, an overtime win that kept the Redskins' playoff hopes alive.

But Cousins is unlikely to see the field in 2013, barring an injury. Coach Mike Shanahan reiterated at a news conference Tuesday that he has no plans to sit Griffin.

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