Robert Griffin III: Redskins Will Win 8 Games Behind His Arm in 2012

The Washington Redskins made their selection of Robert Griffin III official on Thursday evening, when they made Griffin the No. 2 overall selection in the 2012 NFL draft.

Griffin will severely alter the future of the Redskins franchise, as he brings an impressive skill set, excitement and incredible character to the organization from day one.

The Redskins were 5-11 in 2011, landing Washington in the basement of the NFC East. They will make a three-game improvement in 2012 and finish the season 8-8.

Griffin is just one player, but he addresses all of the Redskins' weaknesses from last season. The 'Skins scored 104 points less than the first-place Philadelphia Eagles did, and they were the only team to score less than 300 total points in the NFC East.

The Redskins could not stretch the field vertically and struggled to run the football because of it. Rex Grossman's poor decision-making and questionable ability kept the Redskins from performing to their potential.

Griffin throws an excellent deep ball. This will keep the defense honest and allow running backs Roy Helu and Evan Royster to find seams at the line of scrimmage. Griffin can also run the ball himself, if need be. 

In terms of targets, Griffin does not have an elite receiver to throw the ball to. However, the Redskins' cupboard is less bare this time around. Washington signed Josh Morgan and Pierre Garcon this offseason and will surely add to its stable with one of its upcoming draft selections. 

The Redskins offense needed a shot in the arm, and RG3 is the perfect remedy. Washington's defense is ready to win at least eight contests, and now the offense will be nearing the same situation. 

Griffin brings an incredible amount of excitement to a Redskins organization trying to climb its way out of the cellar of the NFC East. He will face normal rookie growing pains, but Griffin will have a successful rookie season. 

The Redskins must continue adding depth throughout the 2012 NFL draft, but they got their guy. Building around Griffin for next season and beyond puts this franchise on the right track. 

The 'Skins are not ready to win the NFC East in 2012, but they will undoubtedly improve. Eight victories sounds good to a fanbase looking for optimism.