The Washington Commanders announced today that they will be retiring John Riggins jersey(#44) during their Week 9 game against the Los Angeles Rams on November 8th. Riggo was an NFL legend, and had one of the greatest plays in Super Bowl history.
John Riggins was the MVP for the Washington Redskins in their victory over the Miami Dolphins in Super Bowl XVII, and he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1992. Riggo was also inducted into the Washington Redskins Ring of Fame in 1990.
Riggins’ #44 joins a growing list of jersey numbers that have been retired over the team’s 94-year history. He will be the 7th player to have their number retired, following his former teammate Art Monk(#81) last season.
John Riggins was also known for his personality on and off the field. Nicknamed the Diesel, he was a fan favorite, and his play backed up the love he got from the crowd. The former track star became a football legend through his toughness, speed, and tenacity.
He was also a legend in the DMV for his partying, and his post-playing media career. Riggo was on the radio, television, YouTube, podcasts, and more. His relationship with yhe team splintered under former owner Dan Snyder, but the new ownership group led by managing partner Josh Harris has been working to bring back other former players who have stayed away like Darrell Green.
