RGIII advises top QB prospects: Don't get caught up in the hype
Recently signed Baltimore Ravens backup quarterback Robert Griffin III has some advice for this year's top quarterback prospects vying to be the No. 1 selection on April 26.
"Everybody wants to be labeled the best quarterback, the best this, the best that," Griffin said, according to Jamison Hensley of ESPN. "I see the guys get caught up in that a little bit. You just want to make sure you don’t. It is important to feel a certain kind of way, but where you get drafted, where you go, is as important as the number behind your name."
Griffin was selected by the Washington Redskins with the second pick of the 2012 draft after a much-hyped battle with Andrew Luck (the eventual No. 1 pick) in the pre-draft buildup.
He's urging this year's top quarterback grouping of Sam Darnold, Josh Rosen, Baker Mayfield, Josh Allen, and Lamar Jackson to avoid getting swept up in the head-to-head competition and focus on their own games.
"The advice I would give them, to keep it short and frank, is (if) they are able to play at a high level in college, they can do that in the pros," Griffin said. "Right now, it’s all about what everybody is saying, and you can get caught up in that. Don’t get caught up in that. It’s about playing the game. Play it at a high level and listen to your coach. Know exactly who you are as a player and know that they’re there to make you better."
Griffin spent his first four campaigns in Washington - winning Rookie of the Year in 2012 - but was released ahead of the 2016 season after not playing in 2015. He signed with the Cleveland Browns but managed just five games before sustaining another injury, and subsequently took the 2017 term off before joining the Ravens this offseason.
The 28-year-old is hoping for better luck for this year's rookie crop.
"Hopefully, those guys get in a great organization that will take care of them. I want them to succeed and help facilitate that as best as possible. I wish the best for every single one of them," said Griffin.