Is RG3 Really Built for a Long-Term NFL Career?

Robert Griffin III has franchise quarterback ability, but he'll never become one if he continues to play the game with reckless abandon.

He had to leave the game against the Baltimore Ravens in Week 15 after a devastating and awkward hit that looked to have been a season-ender. 

Gruesome, right? 

Luckily for the Washington Redskins, RG3 didn't suffer a serious injury on that play, but he easily could have. Some feared he suffered a torn ACL, but according to ESPN.com, that has been "ruled out" by team spokesperson Tony Wyllie. 

When the stud rookie went down with a concussion on a hit endured scrambling near the goal line against the Atlanta Falcons in Week 5, many started to wonder if his affinity for running the football would ultimately hinder his ability to stay healthy. 

Now, that question is rightfully being posed again. 

As it currently stands, Griffin simply isn't built for a long-term career in the NFL. At 6'2'' and a relatively small 217 pounds, RG3 can't continue to take open-field hits if he's to continue to develop and thrive as a signal-caller in this league. 

Unfortunately, his elite speed and elusiveness make him such a multi-dimensional threat, and these attributes are why he has been so dangerous running the read-option in 2012. However, Griffin doesn't have to run often to be extremely effective over a long career. He is truly a tremendous pocket passer with a quick release and pinpoint accuracy. 

Because of his inherent playmaking abilities, it won't be easy to rein in the former Heisman Trophy winner. Still, Griffin has to limit his scrambles, especially when they're made down the middle of the field. 

The Redskins have lucked out twice, but the next time they might not be so fortunate.

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