John Riggins is a name synonymous with toughness, power running, and Washington Redskins glory. For fans of a certain era, the image of “The Diesel” churning through defenses in the burgundy and gold is iconic. While his career started with the New York Jets, it was with the Redskins that Riggins cemented his legacy as one of the NFL’s most bruising and effective running backs, especially in the biggest moments.
Riggins entered the NFL as a highly touted prospect, selected sixth overall by the New York Jets in the 1971 NFL Draft after a stellar college career at the University of Kansas. He spent five seasons with the Jets, showcasing his talent but not quite reaching his full potential in a struggling New York offense. In 1976, a pivotal moment arrived: Riggins signed with the Washington Redskins as a free agent. This move would redefine his career and etch his name into Redskins’ history forever.
At 6-foot-2 and 230 pounds, John Riggins was built like a linebacker playing running back. He wasn’t known for blazing speed or dazzling agility, but for relentless power and an uncanny ability to gain yards after contact. He was the embodiment of a workhorse back, thriving on volume and wearing down defenses as games wore on. His nine seasons with the Redskins saw him become the focal point of their offense. Interestingly, his Redskins tenure wasn’t without its pause; Riggins famously sat out the entire 1980 season due to a contract dispute, highlighting his strong personality and self-belief.
Over his 14-season NFL career, Riggins amassed impressive statistics: 11,352 rushing yards and 104 touchdowns on the ground, complemented by 2,090 receiving yards and 12 receiving touchdowns. However, it was in the playoffs and Super Bowls where “Riggo” truly elevated his game. He played in two NFC Championship games and two Super Bowls (XVII and XVIII) with the Redskins, consistently performing at his peak when the stakes were highest.
Super Bowl XVII against the Miami Dolphins remains John Riggins’ defining moment. Named Super Bowl MVP, he delivered a herculean performance, carrying the ball a Super Bowl record 38 times for 166 yards. The game’s decisive play was a thunderous 43-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter, sealing the Redskins’ 27-17 victory and their first Super Bowl title. This performance, on the biggest stage, solidified Riggins’ place as a Redskins legend.
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The season following Super Bowl XVII, in 1983, was arguably Riggins’ best statistically. He rushed for a career-high 1,347 yards and a then-NFL record 24 rushing touchdowns. This dominant season earned him his first and only All-Pro selection, a testament to his sustained excellence.
John Riggins’ impact on the Washington Redskins goes beyond statistics. He was the heart and soul of the team during a golden era, embodying their tough, resilient, and never-say-die spirit. He is rightfully remembered as one of the greatest Redskins of all time, and his name will forever be linked with the franchise’s Super Bowl XVII triumph. “The Diesel” didn’t just run through defenses; he ran into the hearts of Redskins fans forever.
