On March 9, the Redskins finalized a deal with the St. Louis Rams that would eventually bring Robert Griffin III to Washington via the No. 2 overall pick.

Two weeks after the trade, 2011 starter Rex Grossman re-signed with the team, ready to lend his decade of professional experience to the future of the team.

"We are going to get the best 90 players and have them compete," head coach Mike Shanahan said of Grossman.  "A lot has to do with the supporting cast."

Throughout OTA's, Grossman has been a steady, guiding presence for Griffin III and fellow rookie Kirk Cousins.  He and Cousins have split reps with the second team offense, and their relationship has been anything but contentious.

"While we both want to be that No. 2 quarterback, I know that Rex is also going to help me and help Robert," Cousins said.  "He's been tremendous in terms of helping me whenever I have a question, or even going out of his way to point things out to me."

That's not to say that Grossman is conceding his job to the rookies.  Despite Grossman's veteran guidance, Cousins understands the stakes of the backup competition.

"I don't think Rex has conceded anything," he said.  "He's still pursuing an opportunity to play for this team and to help this team win."

In order to win the No. 2 job, Grossman will have to improve on a disappointing 2011.  With an understanding of what the coaches expect, Grossman knows where he needs to improve.

"I have to maintain my ability and get better," he said.  "Continue to work on the things that I do well, and focus on the major things that held me back, which were the turnovers.  That's been my focus." Grossman's approach and preparation will set him up for future success, but should also rub off on Cousins.

"I feel like I'm in a good situation to develop," Cousins said.  "I need to be patient and learn all I can, but I'm excited about the future."