Tag: John Riggins

Penn State superstar Tyler Warren wears 44 for a reason

Penn State tight end Tyler Warren wears the number 44 for a special reason, and it’s one the Washington Commanders will want to hear.

The 2025 NFL draft is 10 weeks away and NFL teams and draft prospects alike are gearing up for the three-day event in Green Bay, Wisconsin. The Washington Commanders have the 29th pick in this year’s draft, and speculation abounds over who they will select.

One of the names that has come up in some mock drafts is Tyler Warren, a tight end out of Penn State. He grew up in Mechanicsville, Virginia, and he wears the number 44 for a very special reason:

After telling Warren that he doesn’t think he’ll last until 29 when Washington picks, J.P. Finlay asks Warren about the reason he wears the number 44.

“I actually wore 44 because my dad sat me down when I was first starting football and said, ‘I want you to run the ball like John Riggins.’And he pulled out the YouTube videos of him running it, and that’s where the 44 came from and why I wore it.”

Growing up in Mechanicsville, Warren is a Commanders fan through and through. He is projected to get drafted in the top 15, but even if he falls to 29, he won’t be able to wear his beloved number 44 anymore. When Finlay mentioned that to Warren, he said, “That would be a fine trade-off.”

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Legendary John Riggins has solution for Commanders’ secondary issues

Riggo has a solution for Washington’s secondary woes.

The Washington Commanders are 4-2 and in first place in the NFC East heading into Sunday’s game against the Carolina Panthers.

Washington’s offense is one of the best in the NFL, looking unstoppable at times. However, the same can’t be said for the defense. After faring well in the previous two weeks, the defense struggled badly at Baltimore in a Week 6 loss.

The Commanders’ failure to adequately stop the run is puzzling at times. However, Washington’s struggles to stop opposing passing games aren’t surprising. There were question marks at cornerback entering the season, and those questions remain after six games.

Second-year cornerback Emmanuel Forbes remains a mystery. He’s struggled and can’t even get on the field. Benjamin St-Juste shows flashes but still allows far too many big plays. Free-agent addition Noah Igbinoghene has been a pleasant surprise, while rookie Mike Sainristil looks like a future star. In today’s NFL, that’s not enough.

In the latest addition of “The John Riggins Show,” the Hall of Fame running back had a suggestion for the Commanders if their pass defense struggles on Sunday.

“One possible way out of this, and he’ll already be there, at halftime if they’re struggling mightily is throw a uniform on No. 28,” Riggins said referring to Hall of Fame cornerback Darrell Green. The Commanders are retiring Green’s No. 28 this weekend.

That’s not a bad idea.

Seeing Riggins discuss his former team and Green’s return to the franchise is more proof that everything surrounding the Commanders has completely changed since Josh Harris and his group purchased the team in July 2022.

Looking back at one of the most significant wins in Washington history

Looking back to one of the most memorable wins in franchise history.

This weekend marks the 40-year anniversary of one of the most significant Washington Redskins-Dallas Cowboys games in the rivalry’s storied history.

Both teams were at the top of the NFL. Washington was the defending Super Bowl champion. Dallas had been to the NFC championship game three consecutive seasons (1980-82), losing to Philadelphia, San Francisco and Washington.

The Redskins had defeated the Cowboys at RFK Stadium 31-17 in the 1982 NFC title game before defeating the Dolphins in Super Bowl XVII 27-17.

The 1983 season opener pitted Dallas against Washington in a rematch of the NFC championship game. Washington raced out to a 23-3 halftime lead. But Dallas played a near-perfect second half, storming back to shock the Redskins and the RFK fans, winning 31-30.

All season long, Washington had to think about how they had blown a 20-point halftime lead to their most hated rivals. Week 15 came on Dec. 11. The game buildup was huge as both Dallas and Washington were owning the NFC, both sharing 12-2 records. Washington players boarded the plane for Dallas dressed in Army fatigues.

The winner of this game would no doubt be the winner of the NFC East and earn the home-field advantage for the NFC playoffs. The rematch of the season opener would, this time, be played at Texas Stadium in Irving, Texas. Dallas was made a three-point favorite.

Washington and the Cowboys were dominant that season. It was only the second time since the NFL-AFL merger in 1970 that two teams within the same division had won 12 games. Dallas and Philadelphia had also accomplished the feat in 1980, then met in the NFC championship game in Philadelphia.

Dallas star running back Tony Dorsett had rushed for at least 100 yards in three consecutive games, and when he gained 100 yards at home, Dallas was an astonishing 25-0.

Dallas had been held to 21 points only once all season — until this day. The Washington defense dominated the line of scrimmage, holding Dorsett to only 34 yards on his 14 carries (2.4 YPC). The Cowboys finished with a franchise low in their history 33 yards on 20 rushing attempts (1.65 YPC).

Meanwhile, Redskins quarterback Joe Theismann attempted only 17 passes. But he did complete 11 for 203 yards (11.9 YPA), including touchdown passes of 40 yards (Clint Didier) and 43 yards (Art Monk).

First Half

Second Half

The lopsided outcome was a surprise to all involved. Washington manhandled Dallas 31-10 for their first win at Dallas since the 1976 team coached by George Allen.

John Riggins (27-89) and Joe Washington (8-44) led a running attack that produced 166 yards on 42 carries (3.9 YPC). Washington generated 366 yards and Dallas only 205, and Washington won the turnover battle 4-1.

Greg Williams, filling in for injured starting safety Mark Murphy, came up with two interceptions, and cornerback Darrell Green added another.

The loss shattered the Cowboys’ season. They never recovered, losing in the season finale to San Francisco and then at home to the Rams in the playoffs.

Washington defeated the Giants in the season finale, then the Rams 51-7 at RFK in the divisional round. The Redskins then beat the visiting 49ers 24-21 in the NFC championship game before losing to the Raiders 38-9 in Super Bowl XVIII.

LOOK: New owners, legends and other pro sports stars in attendance for Commanders’ win

Former players returned and a pair of NBA superstars were at FedEx Field.

The stars were out for the Washington Commanders’ season-opener against the Arizona Cardinals from FedEx Field. Sunday’s game was dubbed the “Welcome Home” game by Washington’s new owners, as several former players returned to FedEx Field after being alienated from the franchise for years.

However, Sunday wasn’t just about former players, owners, or celebrities. It was mainly about the fans. Washington’s new ownership group has seen what has happened to the fan base over the past 24 years. Heck, three of Washington’s new owners grew up as fans of the franchise.

If Sunday was any indication of the future, the Commanders should be excited. FedEx Field was sold out — and loud. Until Washington becomes a consistent winner, it won’t be easy to keep opposing fan bases, such as Dallas and Philadelphia, out, but you must start somewhere. And Week 1 was a terrific starting point.

Here are some images and videos of former players and current professional sports stars who attended Sunday’s game.

Champ Bailey returns to Washington, will serve as Commanders’ honorary captain for Week 1

Champ Bailey is the latest former Washington player to return to the franchise.

Another Washington legend is returning to the fold for the Commanders’ Week 1 game against the Arizona Cardinals.

Via John Keim of ESPN, Pro Football Hall of Fame cornerback Champ Bailey will be honored as the franchise’s Legend of the Game and also serve as an honorary captain.

“Now, for several reasons, it feels like the perfect time to show up and become part of the franchise again,” Bailey said. “I’ve been wanting this for years. Timing is everything.”

Bailey was the No. 7 overall pick in the 1999 NFL draft by former general manager Charley Casserly. After five outstanding seasons in Washington, the team traded Bailey — and a second-round pick — to the Denver Broncos for running back Clinton Portis. Bailey would spend 10 seasons with the Broncos and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2019.

Portis would go on to have an excellent career for Washington, but Bailey would become one of the greatest cornerbacks in NFL history. Bailey was in a contract dispute with Washington in 2003 at the time of his trade.

During his time in Washington, Bailey was named a second-team All-Pro twice and was selected to the Pro Bowl four times.

Bailey hasn’t been back at FedEx Field since 2009, when he returned for a game while with the Broncos. Bailey has been critical of the organization — mainly former owner Dan Snyder — over the years. But since Snyder sold the organization in July, new owner Josh Harris and his partners have worked hard to repair relationships with the fan base and former players.

Former Washington running back Tim Hightower, the franchise’s director of alumni relations, has worked hard to bring back several of the franchise’s legends, including Bailey. However, former ownership complicated matters, specifically Bailey.

Bailey is the latest former player to return for Sunday’s game, joining Pro Football Hall of Fame running back John Riggins and former NFL offensive rookie of the year Robert Griffin III.

 

John Riggins is expected to attend the Commanders’ Week 1 opener vs. Cardinals

The times are changing.

John Riggins is one of the greatest players in the rich history of the Washington NFL franchise. Riggins played 14 NFL seasons, nine of those in Washington, finished his career with over 11,000 rushing yards, 104 touchdowns, a Super Bowl champion — and MVP — and was enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Yet, over the years, Riggins has had a contentious relationship with the franchise with whom he is beloved. “Riggo” was one of the former players who never shied away from his disdain for former owner Dan Snyder. Riggins once said Snyder had a “dark heart.”

When the franchise was rebranded to the Commanders in 2022, Riggins was outspoken about the name.

“I feel completely disenfranchised,” said Riggins. “I can’t understand how anyone who once played under the old franchise name could possibly want to be a part of anything to do with the Washington Commanders.”

In December, the Commanders honored “The Hogs,” the team’s legendary former offensive line in which Riggins is an honorary member. Several members of the group, including Riggins, did not attend the celebration.

However, things have changed. Snyder is gone. Yes, the Commanders’ name remains — for now — but new owner Josh Harris has made it his mission to right many of Snyder’s wrongs. One of those wrongs is the fractured relationship between the team and its alums.

On Wednesday, The Economic Club of Washington, D.C., hosted Harris and one of his partners, Mitchell Rales, for an interview. Riggins was in attendance and was seen speaking with Harris and Rales.

This was a big step for Riggins and the franchise. But that’s not the end. Sam Fortier of The Washington Post revealed that Riggins “is expected” to attend Washington’s season opener against the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday.

The times are indeed changing.

Commanders season opener in 44 days: Washington’s best No. 44

RIGGO!!!!

Commanders Wire continues a countdown to the Commanders season opener for 2023 in 44 days. Who was Washington’s best player wearing number 44?

A few of us old-timers will remember Washington RB Moses Denson who ran two seasons for the Redskins (1974-75). An even smaller number of us will recall Jeff Severson, who enjoyed a seven-year career in the NFL but only one with Washington. Severson was a defensive back who played special teams hard for Marv Levy and George Allen in 1972.

But the greatest No. 44 in Washington history is no doubt Robert John Riggins (1976-1979, 81-85). George Allen brought Riggins to Washington to play fullback. He was a good blocking fullback, but Riggo is best known for his running.

The Diesel rushed for 24 touchdowns in 1983, setting an NFL record. The following season, he again led the NFL in rushing touchdowns (14). The former Kansas Jayhawk rushed for over 1,000 yards in four seasons for Washington (1978, 1979 1983, 1984).

In the 1982 playoffs, Riggo rushed 136 times for 610 yards (4.5 per attempt) and four touchdowns. In Super Bowl XVII against Miami, Riggins rushed 38 times for 166 yards, scored the go-ahead touchdown in the fourth quarter on a 43-yard run and was named Super Bowl MVP.

Riggins, in his nine Washington seasons, rushed for 7,472 yards. Coupled with his 3,880 yards in five NY Jets seasons, he finished his career rushing for 11,352 yards, including 104 rushing touchdowns. Riggins was voted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1992 and was named one of the 70 Greatest Redskins in 2002.

Best NFL player to wear each jersey number: How many Washington players were picked?

Five former Washington players were named the greatest ever to wear their respective jersey number.

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When you think of the greatest players in Washington’s NFL franchise history, which dates back to 1932, which players first come to your mind?

Sammy Baugh is arguably the greatest player in franchise history. He played 16 NFL seasons, all with Washington. He was the quarterback, punter and safety, a two-time NFL champion, and won numerous individual awards. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1963.

Unfortunately for Baugh, he last played in 1952, so many casual fans have never heard of Baugh. However, most know Baugh from his iconic jersey number: No. 33. For years, Baugh’s No. 33 jersey was the only one retired by Washington.

How popular was Baugh’s jersey? Check out hip-hop icon Jay-Z wearing Baugh’s No. 33 jersey back in 2001 in the music video for his hit song, “Girls, Girls, Girls.”

Doug Farrar of Touchdown Wire recently named the best NFL player to wear each jersey number. Baugh won the title for No. 33.

What other Washington icons made the cut?

Of course, No. 44 belongs to John “Diesel” Riggins, the Hall of Fame running back who played nine seasons for Washington and was the MVP of Super Bowl XVII.

Former Washington running back Stephen Davis was named the best to ever wear No. 48. While the pickings were slimmer for No. 48, Davis did have a solid career, playing seven of his 11 NFL seasons with Washington.

The No. 49 pick was easy. Bobby Mitchell is one of only four Washington players to have his jersey retired by the franchise. Unfortunately, it took far too long for that to happen. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1983 and also enjoyed a long career as a front-office executive for Washington. Mitchell is a true Washington icon.

Bruce Smith made his name with the Buffalo Bills, but he broke the NFL sack record when he was a member of the Washington franchise. He spent the final four seasons of his NFL career with Washington.

If you notice legendary Washington players, such as Darrell Green and Art Monk, missing, they made the honorable mention list for their respective jersey numbers.

The following Washington players received honorable mention for their jersey numbers:

Chris Hanburger, Green, London Fletcher, Adrian Peterson, Russ Grimm, Mark Schlereth, Trent Williams, Monk, Gary Clark, Santana Moss, Clinton Portis and Ryan Kerrigan.

WATCH: Clinton Portis, Ray Brown speak to Commanders at OTAS

The pair spoke to the team Wednesday.

It was a beautiful day Wednesday at Commanders Park in Ashburn for the second day of this week’s OTAs. The Commanders were on the practice field, getting in some action, while the team hosted multiple visitors.

One of the greatest running backs in franchise history, Clinton Portis, was at practice Wednesday and took time to speak to Washington’s running backs.

Portis played seven years in Washington and is second in franchise history in rushing yards, only behind Pro Football Hall of Famer John Riggins. Portis is one of Washington’s most popular players from the Daniel Snyder era.

Portis wasn’t the only former Washington player at practice Wednesday. Ray Brown, who remarkably played 20 years in the NFL as an offensive lineman, spent two stints with the then-Redskins, a total of nine of his 20 NFL seasons. After retirement, Brown jumped into coaching and spent seven seasons as an assistant under current head coach Ron Rivera in Carolina.

Brown spoke to the entire team, reminding them that success during the season begins now, in the offseason. And that he — and former Washington players — are rooting for them.

Brown, 60, looks like he could still line up at left tackle for the Commanders.