NFL Rumors: Cleveland Browns name Robert Griffin, III starting quarterback
By John Buhler
The Cleveland Browns have made their decision in naming former Washington Redskins quarterback Robert Griffin, III as their starter for the 2016 NFL season.
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As expected, the Cleveland Browns named Robert Griffin, III the franchise’s starting quarterback for the 2016 NFL season into the days leading up to Cleveland’s first preseason game with the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field on Friday, August 12th.
Griffin won the starting job in his first year with the Browns over veterans Josh McCown and Austin Davis, as well as 2016 NFL Draft pick Cody Kessler formerly of the USC Trojans. From the start of the offseason program in Cleveland, it seemed obvious that Griffin and new head coach Hue Jackson were developing a strong rapport.
Here is what Jackson had to say about his decision to name Griffin the Browns’ next starting quarterback: “It’s time. Robert has earned the right to be named the starting quarterback of the Cleveland Browns. Since he was signed back in March, Robert has made it clear through his actions that he is willing to do everything that has been asked of him to earn this role.”
Choosing Griffin over McCown, Davis, and Kessler was a no-brainer for Jackson to make. Griffin has more starting experience than all three other Browns’ quarterbacks combined. He brings in the element of a dual-threat quarterback that offensive-minded Jackson and new offensive coordinator Pep Hamilton are going to thoroughly enjoy.
One other interesting part to the Browns naming Griffin their starter this soon is that Cleveland can now conceivably move either McCown or Davis in a preseason trade. McCown is one of the best backup quarterbacks on the market and Davis has had ample starting experience before. Cleveland seems to think highly of Kessler, so he’s not likely going to be traded. The RGIII era in Cleveland is officially under way.