Commanders to retire number of franchise legend

Former Washington Redskins RB John Riggins. USA TODAY Sports via Reuters Connect

Commanders to retire number of franchise legend

By Andrew Wright | Last updated Jul 9, 2026 2:21 PM ET

Not many players have been as instrumental to the Washington Commanders franchise as running back John Riggins.

An announcement from the franchise on Thursday revealed that a special moment in franchise history will take place during the upcoming season. A post from Washington's official X account on Thursday revealed that the legacy of Riggins would be honored. The infamous No. 44 Riggins sported during his Commanders career will be retired by the franchise on Nov. 8 before a game against the Los Angeles Rams.

John Riggins is a franchise icon

Riggins spent nine seasons in Washington and became one of the all-time players in franchise history during that span. He is the franchise's all-time leader in rushing attempts, yards and touchdowns.

Riggins was also responsible for helping Washington secure its first Super Bowl win in franchise history. He was named the MVP of Super Bowl XVII after carrying the ball 38 times for 166 yards with a touchdown in the 27-17 win over the Miami Dolphins.

Statement from Managing Partner Josh Harris on the retirement of John Riggins’ jersey number pic.twitter.com/9ZSyBQMqX0
— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) July 9, 2026

No. 44 will be the seventh number retired in franchise history

Riggins' No. 44 will be the third number retired in as many years for Washington and the seventh all-time. Riggins will join Sammy Baugh (33), Bobby Mitchell (49), Sonny Jurgensen (9), Sean Taylor (21), Darrell Green (28) and Art Monk (81). It will be a well-deserved ceremony for a player who helped Washington secure its first Super Bowl win in franchise history.

Andrew Wright

Andrew "Dew" Wright graduated from Charleston Southern University with a degree in Communication Studies. He is a lifelong Chicago Cubs and Washington Commanders fan.

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