John Riggins bulldozes his way into football immortality with an unmatched blend of raw power, fourth-quarter endurance, and Super Bowl heroics.
Football Bio
Born on August 4, 1949, in Seneca, Kansas, John “The Diesel” Riggins became a legendary NFL running back known for his physical running style. He played college football for the Kansas Jayhawks, where he broke Gale Sayers’ rushing record and earned a Big Eight Conference rushing title. Riggins’ size (6’2″, 230 lbs) and speed made him an imposing figure on the field.
Drafted in the first round (sixth overall) by the New York Jets in 1971, Riggins spent his first five seasons in New York, becoming the franchise’s first 1,000-yard rusher in 1975. He then signed with the Washington Redskins as a free agent in 1976. His nine-year tenure in Washington was interrupted only by his voluntary sit-out during the 1980 season due to a contract dispute.
Riggins was known for getting stronger as the game progressed; his churning legs made him a nightmare for tired defenses in the fourth quarter. He returned from his holdout with renewed vigor, leading the Redskins to back-to-back Super Bowls in the early 1980s. In Super Bowl XVII, Riggins earned MVP honors by rushing for a then-record 166 yards on 38 carries, highlighted by his iconic 43-yard game-winning touchdown run on 4th-and-inches. [ProFootballHOF.com]
John Riggins leaves an indelible mark on the NFL as a classic “workhorse” running back whose legendary postseason performances ensure his place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. His record-setting Super Bowl runs and relentless power define the grit of 1980s football.
Accolades and Football Accomplishments
- Pro Football Hall of Fame: Inducted in 1992.
- Super Bowl Champion: Super Bowl XVII (Washington Redskins).
- Super Bowl MVP: Super Bowl XVII.
- First-Team All-Pro: 1983.
- Pro Bowl Selection: 1975.
- Bert Bell Award (Player of the Year): 1983.
- NFL Comeback Player of the Year: 1978.
- NFL 1980s All-Decade Team: Selected for his dominance during the decade.
- Career Rushing Yards: 11,352.
- Career Rushing Touchdowns: 104.
- Washington Commanders Ring of Fame & No. 44 Retired: Honored by the franchise.
