Robert Griffin III Questions NFL Teams Over Quarterback Choices
Robert Griffin III has ignited a conversation about quarterback choices in the NFL, particularly in light of the Atlanta Falcons' struggles with their current duo of Cooper Rush and Jack Strand. With both Michael Penix Jr. and Tua Tagovailoa sidelined due to injuries, the Falcons have turned to their third- and fourth-string quarterbacks, who have not delivered the expected results. Rush and Strand have posted dismal QB ratings of 42.5 and 35.1, respectively, contributing to the team's poor performance, which has seen them outscored 54 to 16 in their first two games of the 2026 season.
In a recent post on X, Griffin expressed his frustration, questioning why veteran quarterbacks like himself, Cam Newton, Jimmy Garoppolo, and Ryan Tannehill are not being considered for roles when teams face quarterback injuries. He stated, "When Cooper Rush and Jack Strand are stinking it up in Atlanta, it makes zero sense that QBs like Cam Newton, Jimmy Garoppolo, Ryan Tannehill, and myself aren’t the veteran presence in the room to stabilize teams when their QB goes down."
This statement has not gone unnoticed, as fans have taken to social media to voice their opinions. One fan suggested that the lack of signings for Griffin and Newton is due to politics rather than performance, to which Griffin agreed. However, the reality is that Griffin, now 36, has not played in the NFL since 2020 and has only appeared in 19 games over his last five seasons, throwing three touchdown passes against seven interceptions. Similarly, Newton, at 37, last played in 2021, while Tannehill, at 38, was last seen in 2023. Garoppolo, the youngest of the group at 34, has also faced challenges, having played in just 11 games over the past three seasons without throwing a pass in 2025.
The question remains: are these veterans truly the solution to a struggling team? Many fans seem skeptical, as evidenced by the numerous jokes directed at Griffin in response to his comments. One fan humorously compared Griffin's self-inclusion in the list of quarterbacks to listing failed restaurant chains, while another pointed out the financial implications of signing such players, emphasizing the importance of the salary cap in NFL roster decisions.
That's the Call
As the Falcons continue to grapple with their quarterback situation, Griffin's remarks highlight a broader issue within the league regarding the balance between veteran experience and the financial realities teams face. The ongoing debate about who should be on the field when injuries strike will likely persist, with fans and analysts alike weighing in on the merits of experience versus the need for fresh talent.
Ultimately, Griffin's comments serve as a reminder of the intricate dynamics at play in NFL roster management. While veteran quarterbacks bring experience and leadership, teams must also consider the financial implications and the performance history of these players. As the Falcons look to turn their season around, the question of whether to rely on established veterans or to seek new talent will continue to be a focal point in discussions surrounding the team's future. The NFL landscape is ever-changing, and decisions made today will have lasting impacts on teams' success in the seasons to come.
