There have been many people who have an important played a role in shaping Robert Griffin III’s life and career. The most important man in his life, however, is his father Robert Griffin Jr. On this father’s day, he dedicated a heartfelt and important message.

“Happy Father’s Day Dad (heart emoji) You fought for your kids to have a better life than you did growing up in the projects of New Orleans, Louisiana and succeeded,” he posted on X on June 21. “You did everything to help our dreams come true, taught us about God and sacrificed through service for your country. Real men aren’t afraid to show love. Love you Dad.”

The former quarterback was born in Okinawa, Japan when his parents served as sergeants in the U.S. Army. His family then settled in Copperas Cove, Texas and where his father began carving out Groffin’s career in sport. 

Griffin, also fondly known as RG3, has credited his father for inculcating traits of discipline, dedication and hard work.

“You talk about learning discipline, learning sacrifice at an early age. If you say you’re going to do something, you do it. If you start something you finish it,” Griffin said, per We Are The Mighty in 2025. “Those types of things really go hand-in-hand with being a military brat.”

RG3 dedicated youth to many sports like track, basketball and flag football. He was a national-level hurdler as a high schooler at Copperas Cove High. According to 247 Sports, he recorded 110m hurdles in 13.46 seconds and a 300m hurdles time of 36.10 seconds. 

His athleticism was one of the best in the nation at the time. He continued his track career at Baylor University, earned All-American honor. He even qualified for the 2008 U.S. Olympic Trials in the 400m hurdles. 

In 2011, the dual-threat quarterback won the Heisman Trophy. He threw for 4,293 yards and 37 touchdowns, and rushing for 699 yards that season. The Washigton Redskins then picked him second overall in 2012. RG3 has always remains close to his father and firecely defended him.

Robert Griffin III defends his father from critics after injury

Robert Griffin was well aware of Intense criticism and scrutiny as an NFL quarterback. However, when fans took shots at his father, he had a strongly worded reply for them. 

“He showed up, I was shocked that he was there, but he meant no harm,” Griffin said per ESPN in 2013. “Anybody out there that's going after my dad needs to back up. That is my father. I will protect my family, and he served 21 years in the military. I know that's not an excuse for anything that he does, but he’s not overstepping his bounds.”

Robert Griffin Jr., his father walked into the Washington Redskins ’ locker room after their 27-6 loss to the San Francisco 49ers on November 25, 2013. ESPN reported that the concerned father just sat down for a while and spoke to his. 

RG3 confirmed the same in his statement. 

“He asked me if I was OK and I said, ‘Yeah, I'm all right.’ And me and him just talked, and that’s it.”

His concern for his son is justified, as frequent and serious injuries derailed RG3’s career. He has taken up broadcasting since and lives a life still shaped by his father’s values.

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Written by

Akanksha Biradar