Former Washington Redskins quarterback Donovan McNabb has expressed his belief that Robert Griffin III is being "brainwashed" by the franchise.

Griffin is currently being carefully monitored as he continues his recovery from a serious knee injury, with coach Mike Shanahan holding the 23-year-old back from first-team training despite Griffin stating that he is fit to play.

McNabb revealed that he had attempted to get in contact with Griffin in order to give him advice, but believes that a mixture of youthful arrogance and franchise control resulted in the youngster rebuffing the offer.

"I honestly think that over there in Washington, he's getting brainwashed. He's getting input from whoever it may be on, 'There's no reason to talk to him, it didn't work out here,'" McNabb told NBC Sports.

"I hope the best for the young man, but the direction he's going in is really a direction he does not want to do. He does not want to go there with me, especially when I got the last word. I'm just trying to help him.

"Clearly the young generation, they think they have all the answers. He's going through a little turmoil right now, trying to make it out on the field, and it's unfortunate. But that's where we're at right now as far as these young quarterbacks who think they have all the answers. Until things start to fall apart and come down trembling on you, then you want some help. But it's a shame."

McNabb is most notable for a 10-year spell with the Philadelphia Eagles, having led the franchise to one Super Bowl, four consecutive NFC East division championships, and five NFC Championship games.