40 Facts About Robert Griffin III

Early Life and Education

Robert Griffin III, often known as RG3, has an intriguing background that shaped his journey to becoming a professional football player. Here are some fascinating facts about his early years and education.

1. Born in Japan: Robert Griffin III was born on February 12, 1990, in Okinawa, Japan. His parents were stationed there as U.S. Army sergeants.

2. Military Family: Growing up in a military family, RG3 moved frequently. He lived in Washington, Louisiana, and Texas during his childhood.

3. High School Star: At Copperas Cove High School in Texas, Griffin excelled in both football and track. He was a standout quarterback and also set state records in hurdles.

4. Track and Field Champion: Griffin won the Gatorade Texas Boys Track and Field Athlete of the Year award in 2007. He was a two-time state champion in the 110-meter and 300-meter hurdles.

5. Early College Enrollment: Griffin graduated high school a semester early and enrolled at Baylor University in the spring of 2008. This allowed him to participate in spring football practices.

College Career at Baylor

Griffin's time at Baylor University was nothing short of spectacular. His performances on the field earned him national recognition and several prestigious awards.

6. Freshman Sensation: As a true freshman, Griffin started 11 games for Baylor in 2008. He threw for 2,091 yards and 15 touchdowns, earning Big 12 Freshman of the Year honors.

7. Redshirt Year: In 2009, Griffin suffered a season-ending ACL injury in the third game. He took a medical redshirt to preserve his eligibility.

8. Comeback Player: Griffin returned stronger in 2010, throwing for 3,501 yards and 22 touchdowns. He also rushed for 635 yards and eight touchdowns.

9. Heisman Trophy Winner: In 2011, Griffin won the Heisman Trophy, becoming the first player from Baylor to receive the award. He threw for 4,293 yards, 37 touchdowns, and rushed for 699 yards and 10 touchdowns.

10. Academic Achievements: Griffin graduated from Baylor with a degree in political science in three years. He then began working on a master's degree in communications.

NFL Career

RG3's transition to the NFL was highly anticipated. He was drafted by the Washington Redskins and quickly made an impact in the league.

11. Second Overall Pick: Griffin was selected second overall in the 2012 NFL Draft by the Washington Redskins, behind Andrew Luck.

12. Rookie of the Year: Griffin had an outstanding rookie season, throwing for 3,200 yards and 20 touchdowns. He also rushed for 815 yards and seven touchdowns, earning NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year honors.

13. Pro Bowl Selection: In his rookie season, Griffin was selected to the Pro Bowl. He became the first rookie quarterback in Redskins history to receive this honor.

14. Playoff Appearance: Griffin led the Redskins to the playoffs in his rookie season. They won the NFC East division title, their first since 1999.

15. Injury Struggles: Griffin's career was marred by injuries. He suffered a significant knee injury in the 2012 playoffs, which affected his performance in subsequent seasons.

16. Comeback Attempts: Despite multiple injuries, Griffin continued to fight for his place in the NFL. He played for the Cleveland Browns and Baltimore Ravens after leaving the Redskins.

Personal Life

Beyond the football field, Griffin has an interesting personal life that includes family, hobbies, and charitable work.

17. Marriage and Family: Griffin married his college sweetheart, Rebecca Liddicoat, in 2013. They have a daughter named Reese Ann Griffin.

18. Divorce and Remarriage: Griffin and Liddicoat divorced in 2016. He later married Grete Šadeiko, an Estonian heptathlete, in 2018. They have two daughters together.

19. Multilingual: Griffin is multilingual. He speaks English, Spanish, and some German, thanks to his diverse upbringing.

20. Charity Work: Griffin is actively involved in charitable activities. He founded the RG3 Foundation, which focuses on providing educational and recreational opportunities for underprivileged youth.

21. Author: Griffin co-authored a book titled "Game Changer: Faith, Football, & Finding Your Way" with his mother, Jacqueline Griffin. The book discusses his journey and the role of faith in his life.

Interesting Tidbits

Here are some lesser-known facts and interesting tidbits about Robert Griffin III that showcase his unique personality and experiences.

22. Olympic Aspirations: Griffin once had dreams of competing in the Olympics as a hurdler. His track and field prowess made this a realistic possibility before he chose to focus on football.

23. Nickname Origin: The nickname "RG3" was coined by his college teammates at Baylor. It quickly caught on with fans and the media.

24. Video Game Enthusiast: Griffin is an avid gamer. He enjoys playing video games in his free time and has even participated in gaming tournaments.

25. Musical Talent: Griffin has a talent for music. He plays the piano and has been known to sing at various events.

26. Acting Debut: Griffin made his acting debut in a 2013 episode of the TV show "The League." He played himself in a cameo role.

27. Fashion Sense: Known for his unique fashion sense, Griffin often makes bold fashion statements. He has been featured in several fashion magazines.

28. Inspirational Speaker: Griffin is a sought-after motivational speaker. He frequently speaks at schools, churches, and corporate events, sharing his story and inspiring others.

29. Social Media Presence: Griffin has a strong social media presence. He uses platforms like Twitter and Instagram to connect with fans and share updates about his life.

30. Endorsements: Throughout his career, Griffin has secured endorsement deals with major brands like Adidas, Subway, and Gatorade.

Legacy and Impact

Despite the ups and downs of his career, Robert Griffin III has left a lasting impact on the world of football and beyond.

31. Trailblazer: Griffin's success at Baylor helped put the university's football program on the map. His Heisman Trophy win brought national attention to the school.

32. Injury Awareness: Griffin's career highlighted the importance of injury prevention and management in professional sports. His experiences have led to increased awareness and improved protocols.

33. Role Model: Griffin is considered a role model by many young athletes. His perseverance, work ethic, and positive attitude continue to inspire others.

34. Broadcasting Career: After his playing days, Griffin transitioned to a career in sports broadcasting. He joined ESPN as an analyst, providing insights and commentary on college and NFL games.

35. Community Involvement: Griffin remains actively involved in his community. He frequently participates in local events and supports various charitable causes.

36. Hall of Fame: While Griffin's NFL career may not have ended as many expected, his impact on the game and his contributions to Baylor University have cemented his legacy. He was inducted into the Baylor Athletics Hall of Fame in 2020.

37. Documentary Feature: Griffin's life and career were featured in a documentary titled "RG3: The Will to Win." The film chronicles his journey from high school to the NFL and his battle with injuries.

38. Youth Camps: Griffin hosts youth football camps during the offseason. These camps provide young athletes with the opportunity to learn from a professional and develop their skills.

39. Scholarship Fund: The RG3 Foundation also offers scholarships to high school students. These scholarships help students pursue higher education and achieve their academic goals.

40. Legacy of Resilience: Griffin's story is one of resilience and determination. Despite facing numerous challenges, he has continued to pursue his passions and make a positive impact on the world.

Robert Griffin III: A Remarkable Journey

Robert Griffin III, or RG3, has left an indelible mark on football. From his Heisman Trophy win to his dynamic NFL career, his journey is nothing short of inspiring. His resilience through injuries and his ability to adapt showcase his determination. Beyond the field, RG3's contributions as a commentator and his involvement in charitable activities highlight his multifaceted personality.

His story is a testament to perseverance, talent, and the ability to reinvent oneself. Whether you're a football fan or someone who appreciates stories of overcoming adversity, RG3's life offers valuable lessons. His legacy continues to inspire both current players and fans alike.

In a world where sports figures often come and go, Robert Griffin III stands out as a symbol of dedication and versatility. His journey reminds us that with hard work and passion, one can achieve greatness and leave a lasting impact.