Robert Griffin III Reflects on ESPN Firing

For reasons assumed to be "financial,'' ESPN on Thursday fired Robert Griffin III, the outspoken former Washington Commanders QB, and did so even though he had multiple years still left on his contract.

The move is confounding to some ... but after getting his footing, Griffin III has apparently come to grips with it, having posted a heartfelt message on his Twitter account to thank "the real MVPs'' in Bristol.

"Thankful for so many people in my time at ESPN that helped me grow because they are some of the best in the business. From the broadcast booth to the studio and ESPECIALLY the people many of you never see behind the camera," Griffin III's statement read . ...

"They are the REAL MVPs and sacrifice so much time with their families just to ensure people like myself in front of the camera even have the opportunity to shine. There were so many awesome experiences and moments that my family and I will never forget from the last 3 years.''

Griffin III, Washington's first-round pick in the 2012 NFL Draft, worked as both an NFL and college football analyst during his stint with ESPN, and his time included a high-profile chair on "Monday NFL Countdown,'' the "Monday Night Football'' pregame show.