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The Washington Commanders will permanently retire Hall of Fame running back John Riggins’ iconic No. 44 jersey, honoring one of the greatest players in franchise history more than 40 years after he led the team to its first Super Bowl title.
Riggins will become the seventh player in franchise history to have his number retired when the Commanders hold a ceremony during halftime of their Nov. 8 home game against the Los Angeles Rams.
The 76-year-old remains Washington’s all-time leading rusher with 7,742 rushing yards and ranks second in franchise history with 85 total touchdowns. His 79 rushing touchdowns are still a team record.
John Riggins’ Legendary Super Bowl Run
Nicknamed “The Diesel,” Riggins cemented his legacy during Washington’s Super Bowl XVII victory over the Miami Dolphins following the 1982 season.
He rushed for 166 yards and was named Super Bowl MVP, highlighted by his unforgettable 43-yard touchdown run on fourth-and-1 that gave Washington a 20-17 lead in the fourth quarter of the eventual 27-17 victory.
Riggins also set an NFL postseason record with 610 rushing yards during that four-game playoff run.
Commanders Reconnect With Franchise Legend
Riggins’ relationship with the organization became strained during former owner Dan Snyder’s tenure. He was an outspoken critic of Snyder and opposed the team’s rebranding to the Commanders.
That changed after Josh Harris purchased the franchise in 2023. Riggins has since reconnected with the organization, attending the 2023 season opener and visiting the team during organized team activities this offseason.
In a statement, Harris praised Riggins’ impact on the franchise.
“Riggo, as many know him, helped define one of the most successful eras in our history,” Harris said. “He played with a rare combination of physicality, fearlessness and personality that captivated fans and inspired his teammates.”
Riggins’ Lasting NFL Legacy
Riggins played nine seasons in Washington from 1976 to 1985 after spending his first five NFL seasons with the New York Jets.
He became the oldest player in NFL history at the time to rush for more than 1,000 yards when he accomplished the feat at age 35 during the 1984 season.
Riggins finished his 14-year NFL career with 11,352 rushing yards and 104 touchdowns before earning induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1992.
With the retirement of No. 44, Riggins joins Sammy Baugh (33), Bobby Mitchell (49), Sean Taylor (21), Darrell Green (28), Sonny Jurgensen (9) and Art Monk (81) as the only players in franchise history to receive the honor.
