John Riggins, Washington’s all-time leading rusher and Super Bowl XVII MVP, will have his number, 44, retired by the franchise on Nov. 8.

Riggins, 76, will be the seventh player to have his number retired by the franchise, joining Sammy Baugh (33), Bobby Mitchell (49), Sonny Jurgensen (9), Sean Taylor (21), Darrell Green (28) and Art Monk (81). Green and Monk had their numbers retired in 2024 and 2025, respectively.

“There are certain players whose impact goes far beyond statistics, championships and accolades; they become woven into the identity of a franchise. John Riggins is one of those players,” managing partner Josh Harris said in a statement. “‘Riggo’ as many know him, helped define one of the most successful eras in our history. He played the game with a rare combination of physicality, fearlessness and personality that captivated fans and inspired his teammates.”

Riggins, who was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1992, is also the franchise’s leader in carries (1,988) and rushing touchdowns (79).

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Originally drafted by the Jets in 1971, Riggins signed with Washington in 1976. His best seasons came with the burgundy and gold — he rushed for 7,472 yards over nine seasons, including four 1,000-yard seasons. He led the league in touchdowns in back-to-back campaigns in 1983 and 1984.

As a result, the accolades piled up. He was named the 1978 Comeback Player of the Year, a first-team All-Pro in 1983 and a member of the 1980s All-Decade Team in Washington. He also earned a Pro Bowl appearance with the Jets in 1975.

Perhaps his best stretch as a player came en route to the franchise’s first Super Bowl in 1982. That postseason, he led the league in rushing attempts (136) and yards (610), stats that are still NFL records for a single postseason.

He also delivered his most memorable moment in the Super Bowl XVII against the Dolphins, breaking a tackle from a defender that tugged on his jersey on a fourth-and-inches to score a 43-yard touchdown that put Washington ahead. They eventually won their first Super Bowl 27-17.

Riggins remained around football following his playing career, beginning by co-hosting a radio show with Christopher Russo in 1998 for Jets and Giants games. Beginning in 2006, Riggins had a larger presence on radio in the D.C. area, hosting his own show before co-hosting with other former players.

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Now, the franchise will reward Riggins for the impact he left on the organization.

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