Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Washington Redskins’ quarterback Robert Griffin III wanted to show the world that his right ACL is healed. The man known as “RG3” recently executed some jumping jacks in front of a throng of fans at Fed Ex Field during the Redskins’ draft day party. RG3 says he’s all in for Washington’s Week One primetime showdown with the Philadelphia Eagles, which is music to the ears of all Redskins’ fans.
The Redskins would be prudent to remain cautious regarding RG3’s return. There was speculation after Griffin III’s injury that he was either rushed back onto the field too quickly, or that his competitive nature demanded an immediate return to the field. Whatever the reason, Washington doesn’t want Griffin III to be helped off the field like he was during the Redskins’ Wild Card playoff loss to the Seattle Seahawks last season.
It’s common knowledge that the Redskins and their fans want Griffin III back on the field at 100 percent. However, they don’t want to risk aggravating RG3’s injury, perhaps putting his career in jeopardy. Sure, Griffin III gives Washington the best chance to win. But he doesn’t give them their only chance to win. Reserve quarterback Kirk Cousins has proven he can step in and guide the Redskins’ offense if necessary. He’s a viable option if the Redskins decide to slowly integrate RG3 back into the team’s offensive plans.
2012 was a successful season by Redskins’ standards, with RG3 leading Washington to the franchise’s first NFC East title in 13 years. Redskins’ fans expect their team to embark on a deeper playoff run in 2013. Of course, they would like to see the Redskins culminate that run with the franchise’s first Super Bowl title in 22 years. Griffin III’s skill set gives Washington the best chance to accomplish that task.
In addition, the Redskins plan on Griffin III being their franchise quarterback for years to come. Rushing RG3 back to the field and risking further injury jeopardizes the franchise considerably. If Washington can avoid doing that, and if Griffin III can return to pre injury form, the sky could be the limit for this once downtrodden franchise.
