NFL preseason 2015: Players with most to prove

Dec 21, 2014; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Jets quarterback Geno Smith (7) reacts after an incomplete pass during the third quarter against the New England Patriots at MetLife Stadium. The Patriots defeated the Jets 17-16. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /

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Dec 7, 2014; Landover, MD, USA; Washington Redskins quarterback Robert Griffin III (10) talks to Redskins wide receiver Pierre Garcon (88) on the sidelines against the St. Louis Rams at FedEx Field. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports /

Washington Redskins – Robert Griffin III

Why is he the pick?

This team won’t be going anywhere without Griffin becoming the player he was promised to be when Washington traded a trio of first-round picks to the St. Louis Rams in 2012. Griffin appeared to be the real deal in his rookie campaign when he took Washington to a 10-6 record and an NFC East title. Unfortunately, it has been nothing but a mess since Griffin tore his ACL in the Wild Card game that season.

Griffin has been either hurt or unproductive each of the past two seasons, leading to his benching in both campaigns. Griffin has also been criticized in the media by head coach Jay Gruden multiple times, something that has garnered national headlines. In the preseason, Griffin will need to ward off Kirk Cousins and Colt McCoy to keep his starting job.

What is at stake?

Griffin’s tenure in D.C. If Griffin can’t get the train back on the tracks, Washington will likely cut ties with him and look to reinvest in another quarterback. It seems unfathomable after Griffin had so much success in 2012, but the avalanche of bad play and negativity has taken its toll. He is still young enough to get back on track, but time is ticking.

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