John Riggins

Lore & Background

Riggins was known for his 'bell cow' running style and productivity well into the later years of his career. In 1983, he rushed for a then-NFL record of 24 touchdowns. He was named MVP of Super Bowl XVII, where he rushed for 166 yards and a touchdown. He also set an NFL record by scoring in 12 consecutive games in 1983.

In Their Own Story

The air was crisp at RFK Stadium, the breath visible in the freezing January wind. Riggins took the handoff, his helmet low, eyes fixed on the gap ahead. The defensive line surged forward, a wall of pads and determination, but he lowered his shoulder and drove through them. There was no hesitation, only pure momentum. As he broke into the open field, the crowd roared, sensing another yard gained against all odds. In that moment, under the bright stadium lights, he wasn't just playing a game; he was carrying the weight of the franchise on his back.

Reader's Guide

Riggins played for the New York Jets from 1971 to 1975, then signed with the Washington Redskins in 1976. He sat out the 1980 season due to a contract dispute, returned in 1981, and retired after the 1985 season. He rushed for over 1,000 yards five times in his career and is the oldest player to rush for over 1,000 yards in a season (age 35 in 1984).

Did You Know?

• Riggins was the first running back selected in the 1971 NFL draft, at sixth overall by the New York Jets.
• He rushed for a then-Super Bowl record 166 yards in Super Bowl XVII.
• Riggins was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1992.
• He was named the Jets' MVP in 1972 and 1975.