World renown surgeon Dr. James Andrews performed successful reconstructive knee surgery on Redskins franchise quarterback Robert Griffin III Wednesday morning. And after the relatively serious surgery, Redskins and NFL fans alike were pondering the question as to whether or not RGIII would be back in time for the start of the 2013 regular season.
Dr. James Andrews released a statement regarding that question by way of the Washington Redskins.
“Robert Griffin III had successful knee surgery early this morning. He had a direct repair of his LCL and a re-do of his previous ACL reconstruction. We expect a full recovery and it is everybody’s hope and belief that due to Robert’s high motivation, he will be ready for the 2013 season. The goal of his treatment is to give him the best opportunity for a long professional career.”
Obviously that’s good news for the Redskins all things considered but it certainly doesn’t let Mike Shanahan off the hook for what was quite frankly irresponsible coaching Sunday night. It’s widely known that RGIII was hurt upon entering the game in which case things got worse as the game progressed. And as things got worse the greatest asset of Griffin’s game was taken away completely, his ability to destroy opposing defenses with his legs. Shanahan knew this, the fans knew this and most of all the Seahawks knew this as they continued to take advantage of an ailing Griffin.
And as we found out today, despite what Dr. Andrews initially said in the quote above, Griffin’s knee was actually worse than originally thought.
Redskins QB Robert Griffin III will undergo total reconstruction of knee for complete tear of ACL and LCL. Recovery projection: 6-8 mos.
— Chris Mortensen (@mortreport) January 9, 2013
For Shanahan to put Griffin in this position was unfair Griffin, the team and the organization alike. Not to mention resting on the idea that Griffin can have an AP like recovery is something that shouldn’t be depended on.
h/t: USA Today