Ahead of Sunday afternoon's season opener, Browns quarterback Robert Griffin III took a few minutes to speak with the Philadelphia media. The former Redskin spoke of the new chapter in his playing career, advice he has for rookie quarterback Carson Wentz and more …
1. RGIII's Advice For Wentz
Back in 2012, RGIII was the No. 2 overall pick in the NFL Draft. Selected by Washington, the quarterback came in and was the team's starter from the get-go. While things ultimately didn't work out for him there, Griffin still understands the pressure associated with being a top pick.
Having been through an experience similar to that of the one Wentz will be going through this season, Griffin explained how he was able to manage expectations throughout his first year in the league.
"You just try to come in and lead by example," Griffin said. "That's all rookies. Come in and show everybody. Don't tell everybody. Show everybody what you can do in the film room, on the practice field, in the game and let the rest fall where it may. That was my focus coming in. It wasn't about how many picks the team gave up or this, that or the other. It was just about work. Let's come in. Let's work. Let's have fun. Let's enjoy this process."
The fifth-year player also discussed the importance of learning from mistakes and understanding how to protect himself from unnecessary hits. That knowledge came with time.
"Getting down and getting out of bounds and what they call living for the next play or calling uncle is just something that comes from experience," said Griffin, who suffered an ACL injury at the end of his rookie season. "I was a rookie once, too, and I tried to run over linebackers and safeties as well, so I know how that feels."
2. Eagles Defense Is "Going To Be A Challenge"
Playing in the NFC East for the first four years of his professional career, Griffin is no stranger to the Eagles' defense. However, he was quick to acknowledge Philadelphia has a new look this season with Jim Schwartz at coordinator. He isn't putting too much of an emphasis on the past.
"The personnel, there's carry over with it, but I am very aware that Philly is starting a new chapter as well," Griffin explained. "They want to tell their own story. You can see it on the tape the way they fly around. I know these guys, Fletcher Cox and all the other great players that they have. They've got a lot of them.
"It's going to be a challenge. I tried to talk to the guys about that, but I don't rely on what happened in the past in Washington for this defense because it's a totally different coordinator and they have a totally different mindset. I look forward to getting out there and playing against these guys because I know it's going to be a challenge. We're going to go out there and be ready for that challenge."
3. A New RGIII?
With zero playing time since the 2014 season, this year's season opener means a lot for RGIII. It's the beginning of a new era for the quarterback, one he isn't taking for granted.
"I'm just excited to have the opportunity. Being in this league for four years, I've seen the highest of the highs and the lowest of the lows," Griffin said. "It's just been a blessing to use all that experience to get the best out of my team and myself in this new environment. I can't thank the Browns enough."
