Robert Griffin III, family survive frightening 4-car crash in Fort Worth
Former NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III and his family were caught in a harrowing multi-car collision in Fort Worth, Texas, on Friday that left their vehicle mangled and prompted medical evaluations, as the New York Post reports.
Griffin, now a college football analyst for Fox, and his wife sustained minor injuries while traveling with their three daughters when their van was involved in a four-vehicle accident.
The crash took place as Griffin and his family were en route to Fort Worth ahead of his scheduled broadcasting duties for the college football matchup between TCU and Colorado.
The family was inside a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van when it ricocheted off a highway divider multiple times, causing both front tires to blow out. Griffin later clarified that he was not behind the wheel at the time of the crash.
Chaotic incident unfolds
In a now widely shared post on the social media platform X, Griffin described the violent nature of the crash. He said the van bounced off the divider multiple times, emphasizing the severity of the incident and expressing gratitude that his children were unharmed. “Thankful to God that my wife and kids are safe,” he wrote alongside photos showing the heavily wrecked vehicle.
Grete Griffin, Robert’s wife, also posted on social media, noting the terrifying nature of the incident but focusing on the family’s fortune that their children emerged physically unscathed. “Got into the worst accident of our lives, but thankfully our kids are safe and okay,” she shared on Instagram.
The couple’s concerns quickly turned to each other’s well-being. Grete revealed she had suffered a head injury during the crash and was undergoing a CT scan as a precaution. Meanwhile, Griffin had his back examined after sustaining minor trauma in the collision.
Children checked, medically cleared
Though the couple’s children appeared to be unharmed, photos shared online showed two of the kids being evaluated in an ambulance. Grete confirmed that all three daughters were checked by medical professionals and reported as healthy following the crash. “Got everyone checked out in the ambulance and kiddos are all well,” she assured followers in an Instagram story.
Earlier that same day, Grete had posted a cheerful image of Griffin seated in the Sprinter before their departure, excited about the chance to travel together as a family. Hours later, that family outing turned perilous in an unforeseen and violent highway incident.
The accident, which involved a total of four vehicles, drew attention from the college football community. Texas Christian University, hosts of the upcoming game, posted a message on X offering prayers and expressing relief that the family was safe.
Weekend broadcast status uncertain
Griffin, 35, has been a visible figure in football media since retiring from the NFL and joining ESPN, and later Fox, as a college football analyst. He was expected to cover the TCU–Colorado game before the accident occurred. His involvement in the broadcast remains uncertain as he recovers and prioritizes his family's recovery.
The gridiron standout, who played his college football at Baylor University before being drafted second overall by Washington in the 2012 NFL Draft, has long been known for his resilience on and off the field. He was named NFL Rookie of the Year after his first season, but faced persistent injuries that shortened his playing career.
While he pivoted successfully into a career in broadcasting, Friday’s events served as a reminder that life can turn in an instant -- even for those in the public spotlight.
Lessons to learn
1. Always wear your seatbelt and properly secure children: Griffin and his family were fortunate that their daughters came out of the crash unharmed. Ensuring all passengers are properly buckled and children are in the appropriate car seats can make the critical difference in serious accidents.
2. Have a medical plan in place while traveling: Grete and Robert’s quick access to emergency medical services and CT scans reveals how being prepared can accelerate treatment and peace of mind in a crisis. Know the closest ER and keep necessary documents handy when traveling as a family.
3. Vehicle safety and road awareness matter: The Griffins were traveling in a larger vehicle, which may have helped protect them. However, it's unclear what caused the accident. Staying vigilant and ensuring your vehicle is well-maintained may reduce risk -- but it's important to remember that no matter how cautious we are, accidents can still happen. Victims should never be blamed.
Why this story matters
This story resonates because it reminds us that accidents can happen at any moment, regardless of status or preparation.
The visibility of public figures like Robert Griffin III brings awareness to the dangers families face on the road every day. It's both a relief and a cautionary tale that others can learn from and reflect on.