Robert Griffin III: Picking A New 2016 NFL Home

Oct 4, 2015; Landover, MD, USA; Washington Redskins quarterback Robert Griffin III stands the bench against the Philadelphia Eagles at FedEx Field. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

The Washington Redskins have moved on from Robert Griffin III and seem intent on committing to a long-term relationship with the guy drafted three rounds after he was in Kirk Cousins.

While it’s a remarkable achievement for a guy who hovered between backup and possible cut at one point since 2012, it’s a painstaking reminder of how far Griffin has fallen.  He was on top of the world three years ago, lighting up NFL highlight reels on his way to Rookie of the Year honors, a Pro Bowl nod and an unlikely win streak that got the Redskins to the playoffs.  Then one knee injury changed it all.

He was lost to a torn ACL and was never the same after he got back.  That combined with questions about his leadership and overall character finally soured Washington on his future despite all they gave up to get him.  It’s no longer a question of if he’ll be a free agent, but when.  Then it’s a matter of where he will go.  Several teams have been listed as landing spots.  Which one should be considered the best fit?

Philadelphia Eagles

In terms of scheme fit along it’s hard not to mention the Philadelphia Eagles.  Chip Kelly had a long history during his days at Oregon for favoring dual threat quarterbacks who could run and throw with equal ability.  Griffin represents exactly that kind of player Kelly wanted so bad when the Eagles tried to get Marcus Mariota.  In fact, the scheme might remind RGIII in some ways of the one that made him a Heisman winner at Baylor.

Houston Texans

Brian Hoyer ended up being the choice the Houston Texans have run with, but head coach Bill O’Brien and the front office have mad zero indications he’s their answer moving forward.  Griffin would make sense for them because he’s a 1st round talent and also the fact he grew up in Texas.  He went to high school and college there.  Returning to his home state would have plenty of appeal.

Dallas Cowboys

However, the Dallas Cowboys could also present that argument.  Although they have a worse record than the Texans, most would argue they have the better roster.  The Cowboys offensive line is among the best in the NFL and would give steady, dependable protection to RGIII.  Something he really never had his entire time in Washington.  The sticking point would be Tony Romo.  It’s hard to imagine him not being back, which means Griffin would likely be relegated to backup.  Is that something he’d be okay with?  History says no.

Smart money says Robert Griffin III will go to a team that gives him a chance to play and hopefully rebuild his reputation.  Given the uncertainty around Hoyer and Sam Bradford, Houston and Philadelphia look like co-favorites at the present time.