The Washington Commanders are set to retire the No. 44 jersey of Hall of Fame running back John Riggins, a pivotal figure in the franchise’s history. The highly anticipated ceremony will take place at halftime during the game against the Los Angeles Rams on November 8. This honor recognizes Riggins’ significant impact, which extends beyond his impressive statistics and championship achievements, cementing his place as an integral part of the team’s identity.
A Legacy Woven into Franchise History
Controlling owner Josh Harris emphasized Riggins’ profound influence, stating, ‘There are certain players whose impact goes far beyond statistics, championships and accolades: They become woven into the identity of a franchise. John Riggins is one of those players.’ While Riggins played his final nine seasons with the Washington Redskins, the team’s name was changed to the Commanders in 2020. Despite this transition, the memories and achievements of ‘Riggo,’ as he is affectionately known, remain vivid for fans.
Riggins, who retired after the 1985 season, will become the seventh player in team history to have his number retired. He joins an esteemed group of legends, including ‘Slinging’ Sammy Baugh, Bobby Mitchell, Art Monk, Darrell Green, Sonny Jurgensen, and Sean Taylor. His No. 44 will be permanently honored, symbolizing his enduring legacy with the team.
John Riggins: The Diesel’s Dominance
John Riggins’ career in Washington was marked by resilience and remarkable performance. He began his NFL journey with the New York Jets, where he played for five seasons. However, it was with the Redskins that Riggins truly blossomed. Despite facing injuries and a lengthy contract dispute, he emerged as one of the league’s premier running backs in his 30s.
His most iconic moment came in January 1983, during Super Bowl XVII. Riggins delivered a legendary 43-yard touchdown run that proved to be the go-ahead score, leading Washington to a decisive victory over the Miami Dolphins. This performance, along with his powerful running style, earned him the Super Bowl MVP award and solidified his status as a fan favorite.
Throughout his 14-year career, Riggins amassed 7,472 rushing yards, making him the franchise’s all-time leading rusher. His powerful nickname, ‘The Diesel,’ perfectly captured his relentless running style and physical presence on the field.
Fan Reactions and the Name Change Debate
The decision to retire Riggins’ number has generated considerable excitement among many fans. Social media platforms buzzed with positive reactions, with many expressing their anticipation for the ceremony. Comments like ‘This is going to be electric!!!!’ and ‘About time Riggo’ reflected the widespread approval and nostalgic sentiment.
However, the retirement ceremony also brought to the surface ongoing discussions surrounding the team’s name change. Some fans who remain critical of the transition from the Redskins to the Commanders voiced their displeasure. They expressed feelings that the name change diminished the historical significance of the team and the legacies of players like Riggins. Comments such as ‘NO ONE CARES UNTIL YOU CHANGE THE NAME BACK TO REDSKINS!!!!!!!!!!’ and ‘You erased his legacy along with the historic Redskins’ highlighted this sentiment.
John Riggins himself has publicly voiced his objections to the team’s name change. In 2022, he stated that he felt ‘completely disenfranchised’ by the decision, expressing difficulty in understanding how players from the original franchise name could embrace the new identity. He felt the change led to a sense of ‘oblivion’ for the team’s past.
A Lasting Tribute
Despite the controversies surrounding the team’s rebranding, the retirement of John Riggins’ No. 44 stands as a testament to his indelible mark on the franchise. Riggins, now 76, was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1992 and continues to be a prominent voice, hosting his own podcast.
The November 8th ceremony will not only celebrate Riggins’ individual achievements but also acknowledge the rich history and passionate fanbase of the Washington football team. It serves as a moment to honor a player whose grit, determination, and Super Bowl heroics continue to resonate decades later.
Key Career Highlights for John Riggins:
- Super Bowl XVII MVP
- Franchise All-Time Leading Rusher (7,472 yards)
- 1983 NFL Comeback Player of the Year
- Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame (1992)
- Career spanned 14 seasons (5 with NY Jets, 9 with Washington Redskins)
The retirement of his number is a significant event, underscoring his status as one of the most beloved and impactful players in the team’s storied past.
