Griffin absent as Redskins’ rookies report

Redskins rookies reported for training camp Monday morning without the head of their draft class.

Quarterback Robert Griffin III, the second-overall pick, had not signed his contract as of Monday afternoon, a source with knowledge of the situation said. He is not allowed to participate in team activities at Redskins Park until he signs. Neither Griffin’s agent nor the team immediately responded to requests for comment.

But before fans worry Griffin is risking significant detriment by not reporting on time, understand that he would not miss any full-squad work until next week. Coach Mike Shanahan is easing rookies into their work this week, while Washington’s veterans don’t report until Wednesday, July 25. The first full-squad practice isn’t until July 26.

“It’s just more a review of film, just going over the installation schedule, getting in a good lift, a good run, maybe a couple hours, not to overdo it, but to get some added time in meetings, a chance to ask any questions over the next month or five weeks,” Shanahan said last month about the rookies’ early introduction to training camp. “It’s a constant learning experience for these young guys. They come back with a lot of questions, and you get a chance to spend seven or eight days with them before the veterans come, and it always helps them.

”None of the top eight draft picks had signed as of Monday afternoon. Griffin is the first of that group to face a deadline to report to camp. Buffalo’s rookies reported July 9, and Carolina’s rookies also reported Monday. Tampa Bay’s are the next to report on Wednesday.

The rookie wage scale agreed upon by league owners and players last summer established a slotting formula for draftees’ salaries and significantly reduced the flexibility in rookie contract negotiations. However, elements such as contract language involving guarantees still could result in disagreements.

Last year’s second-overall pick, Denver linebacker Von Miller, signed a fully-guaranteed rookie contract worth little more than $21 million over four years. Griffin’s deal is expected to be worth slightly more than Miller’s.

Offensive lineman Josh LeRibeus, Washington’s third-round pick, also had not signed as of Monday afternoon. The sides negotiated Sunday and continue to push toward an agreement, according to an informed source.