Washington Redskins exercise option on Robert Griffin III contract

The Washington Redskins have exercised the option on the contract of quarterback Robert Griffin III to keep him at the club until the end of the 2016 season.

The 25-year-old had an excellent rookie season for the Redskins after being selected in the first round of the 2012 Draft, but then sustained a knee injury in the playoffs.

The problem has plagued Griffin's career since as he has struggled to find his form, and was even benched for a spell in the 2014 campaign.

Reports suggested that the Redskins were prepared to select a quarterback in the 2015 Draft, but the club have shown faith in Griffin by extending his deal until the end of the 2016 campaign for a fee of $16.1m (£10.5m).

Griffin has thrown for 8,907 yards and 40 touchdowns to 23 interceptions in his three years in the NFL.