Cleveland Browns Trade Rumors: QB Joe Callahan Waived in Preparation for Robert Griffin III’s Comeback

By Carlo Monzon
Robert Griffin III
Robert Griffin III with the Redskins in 2015. Wikimedia Commons/Samuel Barfield III

For the third time this year, rookie quarterback Joe Callahan was waived by the team. This time, he was released by the Cleveland Browns to prepare for the return of Robert Griffin III.

Since the NFL draft this year, Callahan has been bouncing around from different teams. He first joined the Green Bay Packers before he was released last month by the team. He was then claimed by the New Orleans Saints before ending up with the Browns.

The Browns claimed Callahan last month during the time when the team was severely struggling with its quarterback situation. This problem actually started in Week 1 after Griffin suffered a shoulder injury during the team's first loss against the Philadelphia Eagles.

But, now that Griffin has started showing improvement, the Browns are probably realizing that they have too many backup quarterbacks at their roster, NFL reporter Mike Garafolo tweeted. To meet the 53-man requirement when Griffin returns, the team may have decided to release Callahan.

Right now, Griffin is being dubbed as the potential savior of the Browns, who currently going through a winless season with a record of 0-12. Many fans and analysts have attributed the growing losing streak to the team's inconsistent offense, which is being led by Josh McCown and his backup Cody Kessler.

As for Griffin, the Browns have not yet revealed a clear timetable for his return. However, he was activated from the injured reserve last week and has been practicing with the team ever since.

Sure, he will still have to undergo medical evaluation to get the necessary clearance to play, but going through these procedures may not take that long. Given the progress he has shown, various sources are expecting him to make a comeback sometime in December.

Although the Browns can probably say goodbye to their playoff contention, Griffin still believes that he will be able to improve the team's record before the season ends.

"I have the confidence in that," he said. "I can't speak for anyone else, but they've expressed that to me. I still feel I can be the guy for this team, for this organization and I look forward to going out and proving it."