Robert Griffin III is known for making moves on the football field that others just can’t do because of his speed, elusiveness and big-time arm. Sounds like he’s making moves off the field that others can’t as well. Then again, few have a nickname like RGIII. And few are as popular. And few are as marketable. So it’s not a surprise that few are doing what Griffin is: trademarking his name.
Griffin is a smart businessman who, after hiring an attorney, created Thr3escompany, LLC. According to ChangeLegal.com, he is seeking four trademarks, having submitted applications to the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office for RG3, RGIII, Robert Griffin III and Unbelievably Believable.
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ChangeLegal.com said the trademarks on his name, and nickname, were made for “shirts, sweatshirts, jackets, pants, shorts, footwear, caps and athletic uniforms.” However, Unbelievably Believable will be used to promote “goods and services of others, sponsorship of sports and athletic events and activities.” It stems from a speech he gave after winning the Heisman in which he said:
“This is unbelievably believable. It’s unbelievable because in the moment we’re all amazed when great things happen. But it’s believable because great things don’t happen without hard work.”
Whether this becomes a charitable venture mixed with profit is uncertain. It’s hard to imagine Griffin not being heavily involved in such acts; he’s too savvy. But there’s another point in all this, too. In an era where we read about 78 percent of players going broke within five years of retiring, it’s a smart move by Griffin to gain control in this manner. It’ll help him take better care of his future.
– John Keim
