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So why are the Redskins sensitive about the perception that quarterback Robert Griffin III’s input regarding the coaching hire means he has too much influence over the team? Possibly because perception is reality.

According to Sally Jenkins of the Washington Post, Griffin has “bragged to teammates that he could procure favors from the owner and influence the franchise’s direction.” Jenkins cites unnamed “insiders” in support of the report.

She also writes that Griffin engaged in “fierce finger-pointing tensions with his wide receivers” during the quarterback’s second season.

The disclosures come in a broader column from Jenkins underscoring the importance of the new coach’s relationship with Griffin to the immediate and long-term future of the franchise. Indeed, unless owner Daniel Snyder intends to allow the new coach to pick between Griffin and Kirk Cousins or to look elsewhere for a new quarterback, it’s critical that the new coach be able to establish the right relationship with Griffin.

That makes it even more critical that the Redskins find the right coach — not the guy who says all the right things before he signs his contract but the guy who will embrace Griffin and not try to demonstrate to the quarterback that there’s a new sheriff in town.

Which in turn makes it even more critical that Griffin be involved in the search for a new coach.

It’s fitting that, after a full calendar year in which Griffin had too much influence over the owner on things that don’t matter, the Redskins have opted to slam the door on Griffin’s involvement in picking the eventual yang to his yin. For the sake of Redskins fans everywhere, here’s hoping that the team is simply not telling the truth about Griffin’s input in the decision.

Meanwhile, fans of the Cowboys, Eagles, and Giants hope the Redskins mean what they say.