Robert Griffin III to lose bulky knee brace in 2014, hopes to regain rookie form

Robert Griffin III struggled mightily in 2013, which led to a benching late in the season. (Simon Bruty/SI) Washington Redskins quarterback Robert Griffin III

Robert Griffin III struggled mightily in 2013, which led to a benching late in the season. (Simon Bruty/SI)

Washington Redskins quarterback Robert Griffin III fell victim to the sophomore slump last season, in large part because he rushed back to the field from a torn ACL. Griffin never appeared comfortable on the field, was hesitant to step in to any of his throws and had limited mobility, which all pointed to the bulky knee brace holding him back.

Griffin has also yet to have a full offseason worth of preparation leading into an NFL season, and former Redskins quarterbacks coach Matt LaFleur expects that to make all the difference in 2014.

LaFleur told ESPN that Griffin will "be able to recognize and play the position faster" once he gets a full offseason of work in under new coach Jay Gruden.

"Everybody will see a big jump in his game," LaFleur said, "and he'll look more like he did in Year 1 than in Year 2."

MORE: Washington Redskins Mock Draft Tracker | 2014 NFL free agent tracker

Griffin also will be losing the bulky knee brace this offseason, which should lead to increased mobility.

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