Tag: R.C. Thielemann

Commanders season opener in 69 days: Washington’s best No. 69

69 Mark Schlereth days until Week 1 for the Commanders.

Commanders Wire continues a countdown to the Commanders season opener for 2023 in 69 days. Who was Washington’s best player wearing number 69?

R.C. Thielemann (1985-88) came to Washington in a trade for Washington wide receiver Charlie Brown. Thielemann had come to Arkansas when Joe Gibbs was an assistant coach. A three-time Pro-Bowler with Atlanta, when Washington needed another “Hog,” the trade was made. Thielemann made 34 starts in the last four seasons of his career, including Super Bowl XXII. He was plugged in at right guard as Washington moved Mark May to tackle and George Starke retired.

Perry Brooks (1978-84) was drafted as the 202nd player overall by the New England Patriots in the 1976 draft. Brooks persevered and finally earned his way onto a roster with Washington in 1978. Brooks was a backup his first three seasons to Dave Butz and Diron Talbert. A starter in 1981, Brooks achieved a career-high 6.5 sacks. He was again an effective backup to Butz and Darryl Grant in his last three seasons. Brooks finished with 27 sacks and 4 fumble recoveries. The Redskins released Brooks during the 1985 preseason.

Mark Schlereth (1989-94) played in 75 games, starting 59 for Washington. Though drafted the 263rd overall player (10th round) in 1989, Schlereth was making 6 starts his rookie season. In his third season (1991), he started all 16 games at right guard for the Super Bowl champs, as the offensive line only allowed 9 sacks all season. Schlereth was a Pro Bowler along with left tackle Jim Lachey. As a free agent, Schlereth signed and played for the Broncos his last 6 NFL seasons, winning two Super Bowls.