Reports: Jay Gruden done with RGIII

ASHBURN, Va. - Washington Redskins head coach Jay Gruden would like quarterback Robert Griffin to pursue his career elsewhere, according to reports.

Gruden feels Griffin is more concerned with enhancing his personal brand than about becoming a franchise quarterback, according to Jason Reid of the Washington Post.

The report also intimated that Gruden benched Griffin for the Redskins' game at the Colts last Sunday not merely because the coach felt Griffin was not the answer for this season, but long-term.

The Post article sites a number of unnamed sources, all in agreement that a large rift has developed between the coach and quarterback, and that Gruden believes Griffin lacks essential talents required of a pocket passer in the team's offensive scheme.

According to the Post, Gruden is dedicated to moving on from Griffin to so great a degree that, "Gruden may have to come up with an exit strategy even faster than Mike Shanahan did."

That, provided Redskins owner Daniel Snyder or general manager Bruce Allen do not pursue a trade for Griffin in the offseason.

It is unsure what position is held by Dan Snyder or Bruce Allen.

Though ESPN has reported in recent days that Snyder admitted to those within the program that he was "befuddled" and "confused" as to why the progress of Griffin had fallen so greatly.

Griffin has thrown for two touchdowns in five contests this season for the Redskins (3-9). He left their Week 2 game with a dislocated ankle, returning under center for the team in Week 9, though lost all three of those starts, a stretch in which he was sacked 16 times.

Gruden publicly criticized Griffin after the team's 27-7 defeat to the then 1-win Buccaneers, calling his play "not even close to good enough."

"He's auditioned long enough," the coach said following that loss. "Clock's ticking. He's gotta play. We'll see."