Browns sign Robert Griffin III
Get breaking news and SI’s biggest stories instantly. Download the new Sports Illustrated app (iOS or Android) and personalize your experience by following your favorite teams and SI writers.
The Cleveland Browns have signed quarterback Robert Griffin III, the team announced Thursday.
Griffin’s contract is for two years and $15 million, and can be worth up to $22 million including incentives, reports USA Today’s Tom Pelissero.
“I’m just excited to come in and compete,” Griffin said of joining the Browns. “Nothing’s ever been given to me in my life, so I just want to go out and compete with the guys and grow with this team. I feel like that’s all I’m really focused on. I cherish the opportunity to get another chance to play this beautiful game.”
• A timeline of Robert Griffin III’s career
Griffin became a free agent earlier this month when he was released by the Redskins. Washington drafted Griffin with the No. 2 pick in the 2012 draft.
Griffin did not play all of last season after losing his starting job to Kirk Cousins, who led the Redskins to the playoffs. Griffin, who won the Heisman Trophy with Baylor in 2011, has struggled to find the form of his rookie season, when he posted a 102.4 passer rating in 15 games, throwing 20 touchdowns and five interceptions.
Injuries have since slowed Griffin, who played in only 22 games combined in 2013 and 2014.
The Browns are searching for stability at the quarterback position after switching between Johnny Manziel and Josh McCown last season. Manziel was waived earlier this month.
In his 37 career games, Griffin has competed 63.9% of his passes for 8,097 yards, 40 touchdowns and 23 interceptions. He has also run for 1,480 yards and eight scores.
