Robert Griffin III has been through a lot for since the Washington Redskins picked him No. 2 overall in 2012. The 2011 Heisman Trophy winner has been as high as winning 2012 NFL Rookie of the Year and as low as not dressing for games, working as the scout-team safety.
Last year, the Washington Redskins looked at RGIII playing as the worst possible outcome. From there, many doubted that he would stay in the NFL, saying he would be out of the league soon. They called him arrogant, more concerned about his brand, a me-first player, and a bust.
They called him everything but as of right now, they have to call him an NFL starter. Yes, RGIII has made it back to starting quarterback status in the NFL again. Two weeks into his first training camp with the Cleveland Browns, head coach Hue Jackson made the decision Monday.
NFL.com quoted Jackson saying, “It’s time. Robert has earned the right to be named the starting quarterback of the Cleveland Browns. Since he was signed back in March, Robert has made it clear through his actions that he is willing to do everything that has been asked of him to earn this role.
“Throughout this process he has gained the respect from his teammates, the coaching staff and the entire organization that is necessary for him to lead our offense and really the entire team. Pep [Hamilton] has done an outstanding job with that room to get us to this point so we can make this decision at what I feel is the optimal time which enables us to best prepare for the regular season.
“It’s now on Robert to show the organization and our fans that this is the right decision.”
When interviewed on NFL Network RGIII was grateful, showing a maturity we had not seen from him until then, saying, “I’m thankful for my teammates and coach, Coach Jackson, Sashi [Brown], all of those guys for believing in me as a quarterback and giving me an opportunity.”
RGIII put in the work this offseason with throwing guru Tom House but he likely won the job at the Orange and Brown Scrimmage over the weekend. He made some great throws, showing of that big arm with improved touch and accuracy.
Now, we get to see if he can live up to his potential as a No. 2 overall pick. In receivers Josh Gordon and 2016 first-round pick Corey Coleman, tight end Gary Barnidge the running backs, and the offensive line, he has everything he needs to go out there and succeed.