A legendary running back who played in the NFL for 14 seasons, winning a Super Bowl with the Washington Redskins, and later became a sportscaster and actor.
John Riggins, affectionately known as "Riggo" and "Diesel," is a legendary American football fullback who etched his name in the National Football League (NFL) record books with his incredible productivity and power-running style. In 1983, at the age of 34, Riggins rushed for a then-NFL record of 24 touchdowns, a feat that stood for nearly two decades.
Born on August 4, 1949, in Seneca, Kansas, Riggins is of partial Czech ancestry. He attended Centralia High School in Centralia, Kansas, where he excelled as a three-sport athlete, earning high school All-American recognition in football, all-state honors in basketball, and twice winning the Class B 100-yard dash state title.
Riggins attended the University of Kansas, where he played for the Jayhawks, earning All-American recognition in the process. His impressive collegiate performance paved the way for his successful NFL career.
Riggins played for the New York Jets and the Washington Redskins, showcasing his remarkable durability and persistence. In the 1983 season, he broke the NFL record for most rushing touchdowns in a single season. The following year, he led the league in rushing touchdowns again, at the age of 35. Riggins' most notable achievement came in Super Bowl XVII, where he was named MVP, scoring one touchdown and rushing for 166 yards in the Redskins' 27-17 victory over the Miami Dolphins.
Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1992, Riggins' legacy extends beyond his playing career. In 2012, his high school renamed their football field "Riggins Field" in honor of his parents, Franklin Eugene and Mildred Riggins. The Pro Football Hall of Fame dedicated a plaque, and NFL Films captured the event.
Riggins' brothers, Frank Junior and Bill, joined him for the field dedication ceremony. The Riggins brothers took center field for the opening coin toss, and the Centralia High School Panthers went on to defeat the Troy Kansas High School Trojans 55-0.
John Riggins' remarkable career serves as a testament to his unwavering dedication, perseverance, and power. His records, awards, and legacy continue to inspire generations of football enthusiasts, solidifying his place as one of the greatest fullbacks in NFL history.
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