Robert Griffin III: A Look at Baylor's Quarterback as an NFL Prospect

Robert Griffin III is a world-class athlete with rare speed and quickness. He has built a reputation as a playmaker and somebody defensive coordinators fear. However, Griffin hasn't received a lot of attention as a possible NFL quarterback prospect. Many feel that because of his speed and quickness, Griffin will be asked to switch positions.

After Friday night's game against TCU, I decided to review the game and evaluate Griffin as an NFL quarterback prospect. It is important to make your own evaluations because just going with the masses leads to missed opportunities.

Griffin opened his season with an unbelievable performance, leading his Baylor squad to a statement win against TCU. He made plays with both his feet and arm, finishing 21-of-27 for 359 passing yards and five touchdowns. His performance helped the Baylor offense put up 50 points and 563 yards.

It is difficult to ignore Griffin’s speed, but in the NFL he is not going to be able to rely on his feet. Griffin possesses a live arm with excellent zip to all parts of the field. He delivered several frozen ropes, getting the ball to his targets on a line. Griffin was able to push the ball down the field, showing good arm strength.

Accuracy is one of the most important, if not the most important, attributes for an NFL quarterback. Griffin showed good accuracy to all levels of the field. His short passes were out in front of the target, providing the opportunity for yards after the catch. Griffin was able to keep the ball away from defenders with good ball placement. 

In the deep passing game, Griffin showed good touch and the ability to lead his targets. While Griffin showed good accuracy, he still needs to work on becoming more consistent with his ball placement.

Griffin has good mechanics and balance in the pocket. He has a natural knee bend, allowing him to remain balanced as he delivers the football. Griffin aligns his feet and shoulders toward his target, helping him deliver an accurate football. His delivery is without wasted motions, permitting him to quickly release the football.

The physical part of the game was never a concern for Griffin. However, he still needs to improve on the mental part of his game. Quarterbacks need to see the field, anticipate throws and read defenses.  Griffin has a tendency to lock onto his first target and rarely goes through his progressions.  He benefits from a wide-open Baylor offense. That wide-open spread attack simplifies reads by creating obvious mismatches. On more than one occasion, play-action resulted in a player being wide open.

Overall, Griffin showed tremendous improvement and has put himself on everyone’s radar. He will get more looks as a quarterback prospect rather than as just an athlete. He still needs more time to develop, but he is on the right track.