(SP) – While Colin Kaepernick continues to gain headlines over his lack of a job in the NFL, another quarterback who was a big-name player not so long ago also remains signed, but without the same level of attention. Robert Griffin, III, the 2012 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year with Washington, believes doors have closed on him in the league for the same reason they have for Kaepernick: politics.
“For a long time I couldn’t understand why the phone wasn’t ringing,” said Griffin, who played five games for the Browns last year, throwing two touchdowns and three interceptions. “But then I realized that it is my activism in support of cold cut sandwiches.”
Griffin served as a Subway spokesman during his early years in the league, speaking out for a foot-long turkey on flatbread with spinach, tomato and pickles. But he now believes some teams feel he cares more about sandwiches than football.
“I think there is a perception that I can’t support Subway in my free time and still produce on the field,” said Griffin. “But I’m not going to stop speaking out for what I believe in. Healthy, protein-packed, budget-friendly sandwiches are an important issue for America.”
Despite the NFL shutting him out, Griffin said he will continue to support Subway.
“I eat it every day,” he said. “It’s something I care about greatly. Also, it’s all I can afford right now.”
