Robert Griffin III Requested Falcons Roster Spot
The veteran quarterback petitioned for a position following Atlanta's lopsided loss to the Carolina Panthers.
Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Football
Live Poll
Should NFL teams prioritize signing veteran free agents to address mid-season roster injuries?
Following the Atlanta Falcons 34-3 loss to the Carolina Panthers, Robert Griffin III formally petitioned the team for a roster spot via social media. The 36-year-old quarterback argued that veteran players should be brought in to stabilize teams struggling with depleted rosters.
Why it matters
The Falcons have opened the season with an 0-2 record, struggling significantly with offensive production and turnovers. Bringing in an experienced veteran is a strategy Griffin claims could address these immediate performance gaps.
The Falcons currently hold an 0-2 record, having managed only 86 passing yards in their latest outing. The team started Cooper Rush, who completed 10 of 17 passes, before substituting him for Jack Strand, who surrendered an interception returned for a touchdown.
The players
Robert Griffin III
He is a former professional quarterback who was selected second overall in the 2012 NFL Draft.
Atlanta Falcons
They are a professional American football team based in Atlanta that competes in the National Football League.
Carolina Panthers
They are a professional American football team based in Charlotte that competes in the National Football League.
Cooper Rush
He is a professional quarterback currently playing for the Atlanta Falcons organization.
Jack Strand
He is a professional quarterback who played in the recent game against the Carolina Panthers.
The details
Griffin, who was selected No. 2 overall in 2012, has not played an NFL game since December 2, 2020. His request comes as the Atlanta organization looks to turn around its winless start after the offense failed to produce against Carolina.
Timeline
2012: Robert Griffin III was selected No. 2 overall.
December 2, 2020: Robert Griffin III played his last NFL game.
September 21, 2026: Robert Griffin III petitioned for a roster spot.
September 24, 2026: Atlanta Falcons visit the Green Bay Packers.
September 27, 2026: Cleveland Browns host the Carolina Panthers.
Season Trajectory
This petition highlights the desperate state of the Falcons offense following an 0-2 start. The team must now evaluate whether to rely on current depth or sign a veteran to salvage their playoff hopes before facing the Green Bay Packers.
The Falcons' quarterback uncertainty complicates the team's outlook for their upcoming Thursday night game against the Green Bay Packers. The offense must improve ball security after the recent interception returned for a touchdown significantly impacted their point differential.
The takeaway
The move underscores how struggling NFL teams often turn to veteran free agents when internal quarterback options fail to perform. Fans should monitor whether the front office makes a personnel change to address the team's early-season offensive struggles.
What happens next
The Atlanta Falcons will play the Green Bay Packers on September 24, 2026, and the Cleveland Browns will host the Carolina Panthers on September 27, 2026.
Further reading
For more updates on the team, visit the Atlanta Football section.
Live Poll
Should NFL teams prioritize signing veteran free agents to address mid-season roster injuries?
