Robert Griffin III Defends Lamar Jackson vs. Mike Vick
In this story:
Former Baylor Heisman winner Robert Griffin III came to the defense of another dual-threat quarterback this weekend after former NFL star Michael Vick told injured Baltimore Ravens signal-caller Lamar Jackson to “put a brace on it, let’s go.”
Jackson has been sidelined for the past six games with a Grade 2 PCL sprain. Without Jackson, the Ravens fell to the Cincinnati Bengals in the Wild Card round, 24-17.
Jackson is in the midst of contract extension negotiations with the Ravens, which were already expected to be contentious before his knee injury. The former unanimous MVP has racked up 12,209 yards and 101 touchdowns passing and 4,437 yards and 24 touchdowns rushing in five seasons for the Ravens, but is considered to be a higher injury risk due to the number of hits he takes as a runner.
Griffin III has a unique perspective on this issue, as a fellow Heisman winner who made waves early in his NFL career. But a torn ACL completely changed his career trajectory. Few media members have that level of first-hand experience of the risks associated with knee injuries.
Vick, meanwhile, says he played a full season with an MCL tear, and suggested that Jackson could play through his injury. Vick, a four-time Pro Bowler, played his final season for Pittsburgh as a 35-year-old in 2015.
Response to Griffin III's comments have been generally positive, with most fans agreeing that Jackson shouldn't play without a contract extension. Jackson's rookie deal expires this offseason.
Follow Jackson Posey on Twitter
Want the latest in breaking and insider news for the Baylor Bears? Click Here
Follow Inside the Bears on Twitter and Facebook
Make sure to subscribe to our daily podcast @LockedOnBaylor today! Click here To Listen.
Want even more Baylor Bears News? Check out the SI.com team page here