Robert Griffin III: Rookie QB Must Continue to Build Chemistry with Redskins WRs

Robert Griffin III not only impressed on an individual level in the Washington Redskins' preseason opener against the Buffalo Bills last week, he connected with new receiver Pierre Garcon on multiple occasions, appearing to build chemistry with the 26-year-old.

For a rookie tasked with leading a struggling franchise, Griffin needs to make as many connections as he can, in both senses of the word.

Head coach Mike Shanahan said this week, via the Washington Post:

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I think any relationship grows the more time you spend together. A quarterback and his receiving corps, they spend a lot of time together through the OTAs [organized team activities, or offseason practices] and what you’re doing during summer camp. It’s a necessity. You have to get a feel for each other.

"

Griffin went 4-of-6 for 70 yards in the preseason opener, hitting Garcon three times for 58 yards in the process. It's not only good news for Griffin, it's good news for the Redskins as a whole, who signed Garcon to a five-year, $42.5 million contract this offseason. 

The Redskins see potential in the 6'0", 212-pound receiver despite him being a complementary player with Peyton Manning and the Indianapolis Colts in the past. Apparently, so does Griffin, and it's pertinent that he shows the same chemistry with Garcon on Saturday against the Chicago Bears.

He also needs to start spreading the ball around more. Josh Morgan, who came over from San Francisco, caught four balls for 49 yards last week, but didn't connect with Griffin once. 

Obviously, this kind of thing takes time, and it's more a gradual process than an immediate one, but Griffin can make things a whole lot easier on himself if he finds a few receivers he's comfortable with on the roster.

The Bears will be hungry after getting thumped by the Denver Broncos last week, 31-3. Griffin's chemistry with his receiving corps could go a long way.