Second chances don't come around that often in the NFL which is why Robert Griffin III needs to make the most of his. The Cleveland Browns signed the former Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback last week and it likely marks the last opportunity for Griffin to prove himself as a viable starting quarterback in this league.
Following his breakout rookie season in 2012, RGIII slogged through three disappointing seasons with the Washington Redskins, not even taking a single snap behind Kirk Cousins and Colt McCoy in 2015. Most would say that time humbled the QB, but Griffin's former head coach at Baylor Art Briles believes a different word is appropriate for describing his mindset.
"I think there's some desperation going on," Briles said. "He's desperate. Cleveland is desperate. That's a good thing."
The Browns signed Griffin to a two-year deal worth up to $15 million. His average annual salary will be well below the standard for starting quarterbacks, but enough to put Griffin firmly in competition for the top position regardless of what the Browns do in the upcoming NFL Draft, where they hold the No. 2 overall pick.
New Bengals head coach Hue Jackson worked wonders with Andy Dalton after assuming offensive coordinator duties from Jay Gruden (who coached Griffin in Washington) for the Cincinnati Bengals. Fans are hoping Jackson can perform similar miracles with Griffin. Still, the No. 2 pick in the draft looms large. Many expect Carson Wentz and Jared Goff, the top two QB prospects in this year's draft class, to be available.
"It comes down to he likes Hue," Briles explained. "If you're his guy and you believe in him, [Griffin] will work hard to make it work for you."
Cleveland is also hoping to get star wide receiver Josh Gordon back from a year-long suspension. He is eligible to be reinstated this year and has a lot of familiarity with Griffin from their Baylor days.
However, RGIII needs more than a familiar pass-catcher to turn his career around.
"He's had eight lives. This is nine," Briles said. "At this stage of his career, it didn't fit. What comes with that is the reality of, I have to do it this way or it's not going to happen."
Follow Brandon Katz at @Great_Katzby
