In a surprising career shift, former NFL Rookie of the Year Robert Griffin III has accepted a coaching position with OT7, a 7-on-7 football league that highlights exceptional high school players. At 35 years old, Griffin is venturing into this role for the first time, aiming to nurture some of the country's top young talents. After retiring from professional football in 2021 and working briefly as an ESPN analyst, Griffin sees this move as a potential stepping stone into a new phase of his career. The opportunity allows him to coach future college stars without the demanding schedule of a full-time college coach, which aligns well with his family responsibilities.

A New Journey Begins: Griffin Takes Helm at OT7

In the vibrant world of youth sports, Robert Griffin III, a celebrated figure in American football, is embarking on a fresh chapter. This spring, he will take up the mantle as the coach of RGIII Takeover, a rebranded team within Overtime’s 7x7 football league (OT7). Based in Dallas, OT7 is set to kick off its fourth season on March 15, featuring not only Griffin but also other former NFL luminaries like Cam Newton, Torrey Smith, Michael Crabtree, and Ryan Clark. Griffin, who resides in Houston, brings a wealth of experience and passion to the table, having previously coached his daughters' 7U flag football team to victory.

The transition from player to coach represents a significant milestone for Griffin. While he acknowledges that coaching seven-year-olds is different from guiding elite prospects, he believes the patience and dedication required are transferable. "If you can have the patience to coach [young kids], then you can coach a five-star recruit," Griffin remarked during a recent interview. His involvement in OT7 opens doors to future coaching opportunities, even though he has turned down offers, such as the head coaching position at Sacramento State. Griffin remains open to the right fit, recognizing that this new venture might be a sign from above.

OT7, a platform aimed at showcasing Gen Z talent, provides a unique stage for both players and coaches. With sons of NFL legends like Larry Fitzgerald and Donovan McNabb participating, the league garners considerable attention. Griffin's presence adds another layer of excitement, potentially boosting visibility for both the league and himself. Despite being released from ESPN in August 2024, Griffin continues to explore broadcasting opportunities while keeping an eye on coaching possibilities.

"There’s no such thing as a Plan B but you can have multiple Plan A’s," Griffin shared. He envisions becoming a Hall of Famer in every endeavor—whether as a husband, father, broadcaster, or coach. For now, OT7 offers a promising start to what could be a fulfilling coaching career.

This move by Griffin reflects a growing trend among retired NFL stars transitioning into coaching roles. Deion Sanders, Eddie George, Michael Vick, and DeSean Jackson have all embraced similar paths, indicating a shift in how former athletes find new purpose post-retirement. Griffin's involvement in OT7 underscores the importance of nurturing young talent and the evolving landscape of sports coaching. As he steps into this new role, Griffin embodies the spirit of mentorship and leadership, ready to guide the next generation of football stars.