The Washington Commanders are retiring John Riggins jersey number

Super Bowl XVII was played in the Rose Bowl by the Washington Redskins and the Miami Dolphins. Washington defeated Miami 27 to 17, and Riggins was named MVP. (Photo by (C) Wally McNamee/CORBIS/Corbis via Getty Images) | Corbis via Getty Images

The Washington Commanders announced today that they will be retiring John Riggins jersey(#44) during their Week 9 game against the Los Angeles Rams on November 8th. Riggo was an NFL legend, and had one of the greatest plays in Super Bowl history.

The spark behind so many successes. A force who fueled lifetime memories.

This season, we celebrate the bright legacy of No. 44. pic.twitter.com/t7JV4rbNNe

- Washington Commanders (@Commanders) July 9, 2026

Goal Line, I-Left, Tight Wing, 70 Chip on white

The Diesel, John Riggins
Redskins #HTTR#RaiseHail

The signature play of Super Bowl XVII

January 30, 1983 pic.twitter.com/iAExA4l7lt

- Kevin Gallagher (@KevG163) January 30, 2025

John Riggins was the MVP for the Washington Redskins in their victory over the Miami Dolphins in Super Bowl XVII, and he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1992. Riggo was also inducted into the Washington Redskins Ring of Fame in 1990.

Riggins' #44 joins a growing list of jersey numbers that have been retired over the team's 94-year history. He will be the 7th player to have their number retired, following his former teammate Art Monk(#81) last season.

One of the greatest running backs of all time

Super Bowl XVII MVP and our franchise's leading rusher will have his No. 44 retired on Nov. 8 vs. the Rams

- Washington Commanders (@Commanders) July 9, 2026

John Riggins was also known for his personality on and off the field. Nicknamed the Diesel, he was a fan favorite, and his play backed up the love he got from the crowd. The former track star became a football legend through his toughness, speed, and tenacity.

He was also a legend in the DMV for his partying, and his post-playing media career. Riggo was on the radio, television, YouTube, podcasts, and more. His relationship with the team splintered under former owner Dan Snyder, but the new ownership group led by managing partner Josh Harris has been working to bring back other former players who have stayed away like Darrell Green.

Statement from Managing Partner Josh Harris on the retirement of John Riggins' jersey number pic.twitter.com/9ZSyBQMqX0

- Washington Commanders (@Commanders) July 9, 2026