RG3 makes first comments since losing Redskins QB job

WASHINGTON (AP) Robert Griffin III made his first public comments since losing his job to Kirk Cousins, but didn't address the Redskins' starting quarterback situation.

Griffin spoke at a team awards luncheon attended by roughly 500 guests on Wednesday. He was honored by the Redskins for his community work with military families.

Citing his own childhood in an Army household, Griffin in his acceptance speech pledged to continue his volunteer work.

''In the military, the one thing you have is your word,'' Griffin said. ''When you give your word to somebody, that means you're going to follow through. And I give my word to my family, to the Washington Redskins, to my teammates and the military that I'll always be there for them.''

Redskins coach Jay Gruden chose Cousins as the starter on Monday following Cousins' strong performance in Saturday's preseason victory against Baltimore.

Griffin, originally chosen the starter last winter, was ruled out of that game while in the NFL's concussion protocol.

Cousins and Griffin entered the luncheon side by side during team introductions. Griffin received a standing ovation upon taking the podium.

''It's an honor to be in this position, to have this platform to be able to give back in a positive way,'' Griffin said. ''I'm blessed to have a lot of teammates that have led me in the right direction to be able to use my platform for positive things.''

Team owner Daniel Snyder also spoke, praising the work of first-year GM Scot McCloughan. Snyder hired McCloughan in early January, less than two weeks after the end of Washington's 4-12 season in 2014.

''He bleeds burgundy and gold,'' Snyder said. ''He has really been working tirelessly since he got here, and I really believe he has put together a fantastic team.''

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