Commanders season opener in 77 days: Washington’s best No. 77?

Some really talented players have worn No. 77 for Washington. Who wore it best?

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Commanders Wire continues a countdown to the Commanders season opener for 2023 in 77 days. Who was Washington’s best player wearing number 77?

Randy Thomas came to Washington in 2003 following his first four seasons in the NFL being a New York Jet. The former second-round pick (57th overall in 1999) then spent the last seven years (2003-09) of his career a Washington Redskin. Thomas was a steady, dependable guard. In fact, he played in 143 games, starting every game. Thomas was an effective run blocker helping Clinton Portis and Ladell Betts to good rushing yardage. Unfortunately, severe injury shortened his 2007 and 2009 seasons to three and two starts, respectively, ending his career.

Tre’ Johnson, for eight years (1994-2000, 2002), was a significant leader at guard for Washington. Johnson’s best season was the 1999 season, in which Washington won the NFC East, and Johnson was selected to the Pro Bowl. In that season, Johnson was also voted Associated Press All-Pro second team. However, it was last year Johnson contributed heavily, as in 2000 and 2002, he was limited to 4 and 3 starts, respectively, ending his NFL career.

Darryl Grant was drafted in the 9th round in 1981 as an offensive lineman. But Washington converted Grant to a defensive tackle, and by the end of the 1982 season, he was a starter alongside Dave Butz. The duo became the best defensive tackle run-stopping duo in franchise history. Grant also was in on the most significant defensive play in franchise history. In the 1982 NFC Championship Game, Dexter Manley deflected a Gary Hogeboom pass which Grant caught and scored the clinching touchdown in a 31-17 win over Dallas. Grant also accumulated 27 sacks in his ten years (1981-90) with Washington.

Bill Brundige was drafted with the 43rd overall selection in 1970 and did not disappoint. The defensive tackle out of Colorado played in 107 games for Washington from 1970-1977. Brundige became quite the effective inside pass rusher for Washington registering 49.5 sacks in his eight NFL seasons. Brundige also blocked Garo Yepremian’s field goal attempt, which led to Washington’s only touchdown in Super Bowl VII, scored by cornerback Mike Bass. Brundige had sack totals of 6.5 (1974), 8.5 (1975), and a very impressive 13.0 in 1973.