Recently retired NFL quarterback and current ESPN analyst Robert Griffin III has apologised after accidentally using a racial slur during live coverage of Monday Night Football.
Griffin III retired as a Baltimore Ravens player in 2021, and has since made appearances on television as an analyst for various live games. Monday night was no different, as he gave his thoughts on the clash between the New England Patriots and Arizona Cardinals.
However, Griffin got a little too comfortable live on air, and dropped a racial slur when defending Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts. Griffin has since apologised, as he took to Twitter after the clip went viral on social media.
"Yooooo, Definitely need to clarify this," he wrote on Twitter. "THIS IS NOT WHAT I MEANT TO SAY. Was trying to say ‘those Bug-A-Boos’ in reference to haters and doubters.
"Regardless of my intention, I understand the historical context of the term that came out of my mouth and I apologise." The comment came when speaking highly of the Eagles quarterback, suggesting he has proved haters wrong.
"People said that Jalen Hurts couldn’t get it done," Griffin said live on air. "He could not get break from the pocket, he’s not the quarterback of the future—I think he proved all those ******** wrong."
Griffin took to Twitter just hours after the clip went viral, but ESPN have not commented on the matter. Griffin is popular among most NFL fans, and isn't afraid to give his opinion on an array of subjects.
The 32-year-old only retired in 2021, after falling behind Lamar Jackson at the Ravens. Griffin also played for the Washington Redskins, although they're now known as the Commanders, and also spent a short stint with the Cleveland Browns.
Griffin III was the second overall pick back in 2012, and was awarded offensive rookie of the year after making the pro bowl in his first season. It was the only time he was picked, as his game time began to lesson after the 2013 season.
Following his playing career, In August 2021, Griffin signed a multi-year contract with ESPN as an analyst for ESPN College Football and also as a panellist for NFL Live. However, Griffin has stated publicly that he is still interested in playing.
Griffin has claimed his ESPN contract contains a clause that would allow him to join an NFL team should the opportunity arises. No one has come forward yet, and it looks like analysis could be his future.
