Robert Griffin III talks about his “surprising” dismissal from ESPN

Robert Griffin III didn't expect to be out of work the week before the first full college football game.

The former Heisman Trophy winner and up-and-coming analyst was let go by ESPN earlier this month along with Samantha Ponder, despite having two years left on his contract. He worked for the network as a co-commentator on college football games and as an analyst on morning shows and Monday evening countdown since I was hired in 2021.

More than a week after the shocking news broke, Griffin joined the Rich Eisen Show on Monday to discuss his unexpected departure.

“To say I was surprised [about getting fired]I had already been assigned to a team, Rich, for college football. I would be with my [broadcast team]. … I hurt for them, not because they needed me, because they don't,” Griffin said. “That's the thing about this business — nobody needs each other. But only because we were so close and we got a chance to kind of reignite that fire. That had already been assigned.

“So to fully answer your question…yes, I was surprised.”

Griffin, who last played in an NFL game in 2020, gained popularity as a commentator for his flashy style and creative quips that often went viral. He told Eisen he heard from thousands of fans after reports of his firing spread.

“It really showed me that we're doing it right,” Griffin said. “Having a good time. It's about informing the viewer, but also entertaining them. Those were the statements I kept getting from everyone, whether it was on social media or YouTube. It showed me that this is a business I should continue to be in.”

Griffin will remain in the media room for now, as he told Eisen that his Out of the bag with RGIII The podcast will continue throughout the upcoming football season.