Deadspin: Baylor coach opening draws Robert Griffin III’s 100% interest after Aranda’s firing

Griffin signals interest

After Baylor dismissed head coach Dave Aranda on Sunday, former quarterback Robert Griffin III publicly expressed interest in the vacancy. He discussed the possibility Monday on The Dan Patrick Show.

Griffin said Baylor should seek people familiar with winning and recruiting at the school. He also said he had talked with athletic director Doug McNamee about the position.

A former Baylor star

Griffin played for Baylor from 2008 through 2011 and won the Heisman Trophy in 2011. During that award-winning season, he threw for 4,293 yards and 37 touchdowns, with six interceptions.

Washington selected him second overall in the 2012 NFL Draft. Across 56 games, including 42 starts, with Washington, Cleveland and Baltimore, Griffin passed for 9,271 yards, 43 touchdowns and 30 interceptions; he retired after the 2020 season.

Other names and interim coach

Griffin identified Boise State coach Spencer Danielson and UTSA coach Jeff Traylor as other possible choices. He also mentioned Southern California’s Lincoln Riley, whom he described as a “dark horse.” Joe Klanderman, Baylor’s defensive coordinator, is set to lead the team on an interim basis. He joined Baylor before this season after working at Kansas State.

Griffin’s current work

Griffin, 36, now works as a FOX football analyst. He calls games alongside play-by-play commentator Connor Onion. His Baylor record and stated interest place him among the names discussed as the university searches for a head coach.