Robert Griffith is a former NFL player known for his contributions to the Minnesota Vikings defense. A safety known for his hard-hitting style and leadership, Griffith played a significant role in the Vikings’ secondary during his tenure with the team.

Early Life and College Career

Full Name: Robert Lee Griffith II
Born: November 28, 1971
Hometown: Phoenix, Arizona

High School:

• Griffith attended St. Mary’s High School in Phoenix, Arizona, where he was a standout athlete in both football and track. His athleticism and work ethic were evident early on, setting the stage for his future in football.

College:

• He played college football at the University of Houston from 1990 to 1993.
• Griffith was a key contributor to the University of Houston defense, showcasing his ability as a hard-hitting safety and ball hawk.
• During his college career, Griffith earned All-Conference honors and was known for his leadership on the field. His impressive performances led to his selection in the NFL Draft.

NFL Career

NFL Draft:

• Griffith was selected by the Minnesota Vikings in the 4th round (129th overall pick) of the 1994 NFL Draft.

Minnesota Vikings (1994–2000)

• Rookie Season:
  • Griffith made an immediate impact in his rookie season, playing as a backup safety and contributing to the Vikings’ special teams.
  • His physical style of play and ability to read the game quickly allowed him to earn more playing time as his career progressed.
• Starting Role and Leadership:
  • By his second season in the league, Griffith became a full-time starter in the Vikings’ secondary.
  • He became known for his leadership, ability to deliver hard hits, and for being an excellent tackler. Griffith’s instinctual play made him an integral part of the Vikings’ defense during his tenure.
  • His ability to excel in both run defense and pass coverage helped solidify the Vikings’ defense as one of the more formidable units in the NFL during the late 1990s.
• Pro Bowl Selection:
  • Griffith’s best years with the Vikings came in the late 1990s, and in 1997, he was named to the Pro Bowl, a recognition of his playmaking ability and impact on the field.
  • He had a knack for forcing turnovers and creating chaos for opposing offenses, which helped him earn a spot among the league’s elite safeties.

Cleveland Browns (2001–2002)

• After spending the majority of his career with the Vikings, Griffith signed with the Cleveland Browns in 2001.
• His time with the Browns was relatively short, but he continued to be a reliable veteran presence in their secondary.
• Griffith played for two seasons with the Browns before retiring from the NFL in 2002.

Retirement and Legacy

After retiring from the NFL, Robert Griffith remained involved in the football world, both through coaching and community engagement.

• Vikings Legacy:
  • Griffith remains a beloved figure among Minnesota Vikings fans, remembered for his physical style of play and leadership on the field.
  • He played a significant role in the Vikings’ defense during his time with the team, and his contributions to the secondary are still appreciated by the franchise and fans.
• Post-Football Life:
  • Griffith has stayed active in the community, participating in various youth programs and charity events.
  • He has also been involved in coaching, sharing his knowledge of the game and leadership skills with younger players.

Career Stats

• Games Played: 147
• Tackles: 837
• Interceptions: 15
• Sacks: 6.0
• Forced Fumbles: 7
• Fumble Recoveries: 6

Summary

• Position: Safety
• NFL Teams: Minnesota Vikings (1994–2000), Cleveland Browns (2001–2002)
• Pro Bowls: 1 (1997)
• Career Length: 9 seasons
• Legacy: Robert Griffith is remembered as a hard-hitting safety with excellent instincts who became a key leader on the Minnesota Vikings defense in the late 1990s. He earned a Pro Bowl selection in 1997 and left a lasting impact on the franchise, known for his toughness and ability to make plays in the defensive backfield.

Griffith’s dedication to the game and leadership on and off the field has cemented his place as one of the notable players in the Vikings’ defensive history.