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The Redskins pulled a surprise with their fourth-round pick (No. 102), drafting Michigan State quarterback Kirk Cousins.

Robert Griffin III, the draft’s No. 2 overall pick, has been tabbed as the Redskins’ quarterback of the future. However, Cousins is an intriguing prospect. Some scouts had Cousins rated a better prospect than two quarterbacks who were taken on Day 2—Brock Osweiler (second round, Broncos) and Russell Wilson (third round, Seahawks).

If Griffin struggles early, the presence of another young quarterback with promise like Cousins could create a distraction.

Meanwhile, the Redskins finished last in the NFC East last season. They still have defensive needs at linebacker and in the secondary. At least four respected cornerback prospects were still on the board when the Redskins picked Cousins—Coastal Carolina’s Josh Norman, Georgia’s Brandon Boykin, Nebraska’s Alfonzo Dennard and Iowa State’s Leonard Johnson. Alabama safety DeQuan Menzie was also still available.

Should Griffin suffer an injury, Cousins could be a nice insurance policy for the Redskins. But they already have veteran Rex Grossman as a potential backup for Griffin.

Drafting Cousins, instead of a potential defensive starter, is a luxury the Redskins might not be able to afford—no matter how much coach Mike Shanahan likes to develop quarterbacks.

Meanwhile, NFL Network reported the Redskins cut quarterback John Beck, who started three games last season and had a 72.1 passer rating.