Redskins Jersey Number 44
In sports, numbers on jerseys have become an iconic part of the game, representing the players and their legacy. For the Washington Redskins, the number 44 is a significant number for several reasons. Not only has it been worn by some of the team’s greatest players, but it has also been a testament to the franchise’s rich history.
The Importance of Jersey Numbers
Jersey numbers are not just a mere identifier, but they hold a lot of significance for both the players and the fans. For the players, the number on their jersey represents a sense of pride and identity. For the fans, it becomes a symbol of support and admiration for their favorite player. The number on a jersey is also a way to honor the legacy of the players who have donned that particular number before.
Who Wore 44 for the Redskins?
The Washington Redskins have had several players who have worn the number 44 jersey throughout the years. However, one of the most notable players to wear the number 44 for the Redskins was John Riggins, who helped the team win Super Bowl XVII in 1983. But prior to Riggins, there were other players who wore the same number and left their mark on the franchise.
The Early Years: 1930s-1950s
In the early years of the Redskins, the number 44 jersey was worn by several players, but none of them left a significant impact on the team. One of the most notable players during this time was Bill Hartman, who wore the number in 1951 and played as a fullback for the team.
The Golden Age: 1960s-1970s
In the 1960s and 1970s, the Redskins saw a surge of talent, and the number 44 jersey was worn by some of the team’s greatest players during this era. One of the most notable players to wear the number during this time was Charley Taylor, who played as a wide receiver and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1984.
The Transitional Years: 1980s
The 1980s were a transitional period for the Redskins, and the number 44 jersey was worn by John Riggins, who led the team to its first Super Bowl victory in 1983. The number was retired in his honor, and no player has worn it since.
The Dark Ages: 1990s-2000s
The 1990s and 2000s were not the best years for the Redskins, and the number 44 jersey was worn by several players who did not leave much of an impact on the team. One of the few players to wear the number during this time was Ladell Betts, who played as a running back for the team.
The Recent Years: 2010s-Present
In recent years, the number 44 jersey has not been worn by any player on the Redskins roster, as it remains retired in honor of John Riggins.
Comparing Stats of Number 44 Players
When comparing the stats of the players who wore the number 44 jersey for the Redskins, it is clear that John Riggins had the most impressive career. Riggins rushed for over 11,000 yards and scored 116 touchdowns during his time with the Redskins.
The Legacy of each Number 44 Player
Each player who wore the number 44 for the Redskins has left their mark on the franchise in their own way. Some, like Charley Taylor, are remembered as some of the team’s greatest players, while others, like Bill Hartman, are remembered for their brief contributions to the team.
Conclusion: Who was the Best Number 44?
When it comes to deciding who the best player to wear the number 44 jersey for the Redskins was, it is clear that John Riggins stands out. Riggins led the team to its first Super Bowl victory and had an impressive career statistics-wise.
Honorable Mentions: Players who Nearly Wore 44
There were several players who almost wore the number 44 jersey for the Redskins, including Sammy Baugh, who wore the number in college, and Johnny Olszewski, who wore the number briefly in 1959.
