Redskins exercise Robert Griffin III's 5th-year option

The Washington Redskins have exercised the fifth-year option in quarterback Robert Griffin III's contract.

Griffin is now signed through 2016, when he is scheduled to earn a $16.1-million salary that is guaranteed for injury only. Griffin will make $3.27 million in 2015.

General manager Scot McCloughan said the team made the decision to exercise Griffin's option a while ago. 

McCloughan conceded that Griffin's status on the roster will have no effect on how the Redskins approach the draft, saying the team will select the best player available with the fifth overall pick. Rumors have linked the Redskins to Oregon quarterback Marcus Mariota, but that possibility now appears remote. 

Griffin is expected to enter a make-or-break 2015 season as the Redskins' starting quarterback. Absent a significant injury suffered by Griffin, the Redskins can release the second overall pick in 2012 with no money owed prior to the start of the 2016 league year.