John Riggins' long wait for Washington immortality is finally over

Few players throughout Washington's illustrious football history have meant more to the fans than John Riggins. He's the man this site is named after, and he remains one of the most impactful figures then, now, and forever.

And now, Riggins will have his memory and number immortalized through the ages.

The Commanders confirmed that the bruising running back will have his famous No. 44 jersey retired during Washington's game against the Los Angeles Rams on November 8. It's been a long time coming, but it's another sign that majority owner Josh Harris is doing everything in his power to mend fences and bring the old guard into the next generation.

John Riggins' place among Washington's football immortals is long overdue

Harris issued a statement perfectly depicting what Riggins has meant to the franchise. His deep connection to the fan base almost outweighed his exceptional on-field achievements, and the owner thought it was only right that his legacy be honored properly.

"There are certain players whose impact goes far beyond statistics, championships, and accolades; John Riggins is one of those players. Our fans not only admired him, they identified with him. He is authentic, unapologetically himself and deeply connected to the people around him.

"John has meant so much to this franchise, our fans and the game of football. That's why we're proud to retire his No. 44 on November 8 and honor the legacy that will forever be a part of our history."

Perfectly said. And it's been a long time coming.

Riggins' accomplishments need no introduction. Pro Bowl. All-Pro. Super Bowl winner. Super Bowl MVP. All-Decade Team of the 1980s. NFL rushing leader for two seasons. Franchise record holder in rushing yards and rushing touchdowns. Comeback Player of the Year. Pro Football Hall of Famer.

You get the picture.

Everyone knew Riggins had talent. He was a ferocious presence with extraordinary speed. That was a lethal combination, and his breakout season with the New York Jets in 1975 was enough for Washington to splash the cash in free agency.

The rest, as they say, is history.

After Washington inexplicably moved him to fullback initially, Jack Pardee became head coach, and that all changed. And the results were immediate. Even after sitting out the 1980 campaign due to a contract dispute, his status among fans was unparalleled.

Then, Joe Gibbs arrived.

Gibbs placed emphasis on bringing Riggins back, and what he achieved over the next five seasons set a tone for running backs over 30 that will likely never be matched.

Averaging over 900 rushing yards over those campaigns, Riggins cemented his name into team folklore. His sensational 43-yard touchdown run in Super Bowl XVII remains one of the most important and talked-about plays in franchise history.

Riggins was enshrined in Canton in 1992. Almost 35 years later, 'Riggo' is finally getting his flowers from Washington.

Of course, it would have happened a lot sooner, but you can thank Dan Snyder for that.

The incompetent former owner and Riggins never saw eye to eye. The legendary figure turned away from the team, disgusted at the way it was being run. He wasn't alone, with most beloved figures throughout franchise history doing exactly the same, and with good reason.

Now, relationships have been repaired. And after Darrell Green and Art Monk were also bestowed the same distinction under the new regime, it's finally Riggins' turn.

And there is nobody more deserving than Riggo.

Add us as a preferred source on Google

Follow