Washington Redskins: Top 30 players in franchise history

You won’t find any game film on this guy, but you can trust us on this: This guy had game.

One of the Redskins’ earliest first-round picks, Sammy Baugh was the definition of an athlete, back in the day. Upon arriving at Texas Christian University, Baugh was given the option to play baseball, basketball, and football. The multi-sport athlete ultimately chose the dirtiest of the three, and it quickly revealed itself to be the right choice.

After an esteemed career with the Horned Frogs, Baugh joined the Redskins as the sixth overall selection in the 1937 NFL Draft and immediately became the team’s starter at quarterback. He didn’t miss a beat.

In his first seven seasons, Baugh earned four All-Pro honors and five Pro Bowl berths. At his peak, he threw for nearly 3,000 yards, 25 touchdowns, and 15 interceptions on close to 60 percent completion percentage. His best season was better than Joe Flacco’s average season, and Baugh played 80 years ago, in a time where cornerbacks could have their way with receivers. I don’t know if that’s more a compliment to Baugh or a slight to Flacco, but it stands to reason that Baugh was ahead of his time.

Speaking of cornerbacks, Baugh tried his hand at that position as well, and he held his own. Over his career, he totaled 31 interceptions, notching a career-high 11 in the 1943 season. It wasn’t enough for Baugh to be the best quarterback. He had to go out on defense and make opposing quarterbacks feel inferior there, too.

Over 16 years with the Redskins, Baugh won two NFL Player of the Year awards and led his team to two NFL Championships; one in 1937 and one in 1942. Even today, Baugh is remembered for his accolades. His No. 33 is the only number to be officially retired by the Redskins, and it’s easy to understand why.