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Robert Griffin III, the 2011 Heisman Trophy winner, is anticipated to interview for the head coaching position at Baylor University, according to sources who spoke with ESPN on Friday.
Griffin, who is 36 years old, has been vocal about his desire to coach at his alma mater, where he played under Art Briles from 2008 to 2011. He currently works as a broadcaster for Fox Sports.
On October 26, during an appearance on "The Dan Patrick Show," Griffin discussed the Baylor opening, revealing that he had spoken with athletic director Doug McNamee about the opportunity to succeed Dave Aranda, who was dismissed the previous day.
When Patrick asked if he was interested in the job, Griffin responded, "Yes, 100%." He added, "If Baylor wants to get back to winning and have a university that isn't just respectable on the football field, but the fans can be proud of, they need people who know what it looks like to win at Baylor. So yeah, I would 100% be interested."
During his senior season in 2011, Griffin led the Bears to a 10-3 record, marking the school's first 10-win season since 1980. He threw for 4,293 yards and 37 touchdowns while also rushing for 699 yards and 10 additional scores. He won the Heisman Trophy over Andrew Luck, who is now the general manager of Stanford's football program.
Griffin, who attended high school at Copperas Cove, approximately 70 miles from Waco, was the No. 2 overall pick in the 2012 NFL draft (the source text incorrectly states 2021; the correct year is 2012). He played seven seasons in the NFL for the Washington Commanders, Cleveland Browns, and Baltimore Ravens.
Baylor currently holds a 6-3 record (4-2 in the Big 12) and has won back-to-back games against UCF and Iowa State since Aranda's dismissal, under interim head coach Joe Klanderman.
The news of Griffin's interview was first reported by On3.
Key Analysis
Griffin's potential return to Baylor as head coach would mark a significant transition from broadcasting to coaching for the former star quarterback. His deep ties to the university and his successful playing career, including a Heisman Trophy, make him a compelling candidate. However, his lack of coaching experience at the college level raises questions about his readiness for the role. Baylor's recent performance under interim coach Joe Klanderman, with two consecutive wins, may also influence the athletic department's decision. The interview process will be closely watched as Baylor seeks to restore its football program's prominence.
Originally reported by espn.