Robert Griffin III, once the heralded future of the Washington Redskins, experienced a meteoric rise in the NFL after winning the Heisman Trophy at Baylor and being drafted as the No. 2 overall pick. His Rookie of the Year campaign showcased his immense talent, but a devastating ACL injury during a playoff game significantly altered the trajectory of his career. Subsequently, he played just 20 more games with Washington before moving to the Cleveland Browns and Baltimore Ravens, eventually retiring after the 2020 season. While Griffin reflects on his time with the team wistfully, he recognizes the profound impact that the organization and its fans had on his life, especially given the franchise’s transformation under new ownership and multiple name changes.
Despite the ups and downs of his career, Griffin expressed a genuine affection for the Washington Commanders. In a recent interview, he stated, “I root for the Washington Commanders because no matter what happened, the Washington Redskins, Football Team, Commanders changed my life forever.” This connection to the fans remains strong. He appreciates their unwavering support and aims to contribute positively to the community, showcasing the importance of gratitude and resilience amidst challenges.
In alignment with his commitment to community service, Griffin recently collaborated with USAA on its Positive Steps program, focusing on military families. As a son of two military veterans, Griffin emphasizes the significance of recognizing the sacrifices made by military personnel and their families. He believes that these contributions often go unnoticed but are essential for the freedoms enjoyed by civilians, including attending football games. For Griffin, honoring his roots and giving back to those who have shaped his life are integral to his identity.
Griffin’s sentiments resonate with current players, like quarterback Jayden Daniels, who he believes could become the first franchise quarterback for the Commanders since Joe Theismann. He commends Daniels for his record-setting performances and encourages fans to support him through inevitable ups and downs. Griffin sees Daniels as a transformative figure for the franchise and expresses optimism about the team’s future under his leadership.
Moreover, Griffin shares profound gratitude for the military community, noting, “It takes a special kind of person to be willing to go out there just so that me and you can go watch a football game.” This acknowledgment signifies his respect for those who serve and the personal sacrifices made by military families, which he aims to highlight through his philanthropic endeavors.
As Griffin transitions into this new phase of life, he continues to cherish the bonds formed during his playing days while using his platform to uplift others. His journey demonstrates that even amid personal and professional setbacks, one can find purpose and connection to the community, ultimately promoting positivity and support for the next generation of talent in the sport.
