NFL notes: Benched Robert Griffin III receives standing ovation at Redskins events

Robert Griffin III made his first public comments since losing his job to Kirk Cousins, but didn’t address the Redskins’ starting quarterback situation.

Griffin spoke at a team awards luncheon attended by roughly 500 guests on Wednesday. He was honored by the Redskins for his community work with military families.

Citing his own childhood in an Army household, Griffin in his acceptance speech pledged to continue his volunteer work.

Redskins coach Jay Gruden chose Cousins as the starter on Monday following Cousins’ strong performance in Saturday’s preseason victory against Baltimore.

Cousins and Griffin entered the luncheon side by side during team introductions. Griffin received a standing ovation upon taking the podium.

“It’s an honor to be in this position, to have this platform to be able to give back in a positive way,” Griffin said. “I’m blessed to have a lot of teammates that have led me in the right direction to be able to use my platform for positive things.”

Around the league

Lance Briggs, a seven-time Pro Bowl linebacker who helped the Bears reach the Super Bowl, plans to retire. He said he plans to submit his retirement papers soon, although he did not completely shut the door on playing again for the right offer. … The Panthers have signed backup QB Derek Anderson to a two-year contract extension, providing depth and experience behind Cam Newton. Anderson won both games he started last season. … The Bears have acquired tight end Khari Lee from the Texans for a 2017 sixth-round draft pick. … Terrelle Pryor may be down to his last chance to make the Browns’ roster. The former Raiders QB, who is trying to switch to wide receiver and prolong his NFL career, is expected to take the field in an exhibition game tonight when Cleveland visits Chicago.