Robert Griffin III ended his tremendous rookie season lying on the field with a torn ACL in his right knee. He then underwent reconstructive surgery and has been attempting to make a comeback in time for Week 1 of the 2013 season. As he continues to rehab the injury, Griffin has been seeking advice from players that have undergone the same thing. The quarterback turned to running back Adrian Peterson for advice.
"I'm not all-knowing about the injury so I listen to guys. You know Adrian said what everyone else said. I'm not Adrian. Adrian's not me. Everybody's body heals a little bit differently. Rex also tore an ACL in his career. He's talked to me about the uncertainties that he had with the injury," Griffin said.
Peterson is well aware of what Griffin is going through. He suffered the same setback, only to return much stronger for the 2012. The result was Peterson coming nine yards from breaking the all-time rushing record fora single season. If there is anyone that can offer advice, he is it.
Griffin is no stranger of returning from an ACL tear. He suffered the same injury while playing football at Baylor. He then returned for two more years, appearing to be better than before the injury. Griffin finished his college career as the winner of the Heisman Trophy and a first-round draft pick.
Griffin had his reconstructive surgery on Jan. 9. Dr. James Andrews reported that Griffin is well ahead of schedule and looking stronger every day. The quarterback was seen last week working out with receivers during the Redskins' OTAs. It was the first time Griffin was spotted on the field since the original injury took place. Recovery time for an ACL is typically around six to nine months. He intends on being fully healed by Sept. 9 when the Redskins open against the Philadelphia Eagles.
When Griffin does return at full strength, many have wondered if he will change his style of play as a result of the injury. Griffin's father has said he wants his son to throw the ball more instead of constantly running it. Head coach Mike Shanahan says that right now, the team has not considered the idea of changing the offense and intends to let Griffin be the kind of quarterback he is always known of being.