Gruden: Redskins discussed Kaepernick but will go in 'different direction'

The Washington Redskins lost quarterbacks Alex Smith and Colt McCoy to serious injuries in rapid succession but are unlikely to pursue one obvious replacement-level candidate.

Redskins head coach Jay Gruden was asked Tuesday if the team is considering signing Colin Kaepernick, but it sounds like the former San Francisco 49ers quarterback will remain a free agent for now.

"He's been talked about and discussed, but we'll probably go a different direction," Gruden said during his media availability, noting that the team worked out quarterbacks last week and Tuesday.

Gruden added, "Do we want to go with a guy that's familiar with my terminology who we worked out last week, or with a new guy to back up (Mark) Sanchez with a similar skill set, or go with a guy and teach basically a whole new kind of offense with a new offensive line and with a lot of those zone reads? ... Not a lot of time to really get a brand-new quarterback and new system installed and taught."

McCoy broke his fibula during Monday's loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. Smith broke his fibula and tibia during a Nov. 18 loss to the Houston Texans.

Mark Sanchez took over for McCoy on Monday, going 13-of-21 for 100 yards and an interception.

Gruden noted McCoy underwent surgery on his fibula and doesn't expect the Redskins to place him on injured reserve, potentially allowing McCoy to return by the end of the season if healthy.

Sanchez is the only quarterback on Washington's roster at the moment.

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