Top 10 Washington Commanders of All Time: Honoring the Greatest Players in Franchise History
Think about the long history of the Washington Commanders, formerly known as the Washington Redskins, and the incredible players who have defined the franchise. Legends like Sammy Baugh and Darrell Green didn’t just dominate their positions—they changed the way the game was played.
But who else deserves a spot among the Top 10 Washington Commanders of All Time? These players didn’t just make great plays; they shaped entire seasons and left a legacy that still resonates today. These icons have left a lasting impact on the team’s storied history, cementing their place among the franchise’s all-time greats.
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Table of Contents
1. Sammy Baugh
- Years Played for Team: 1937-1952
- Position: Quarterback, Punter, Defensive Back
- Height/Weight: 6’2″, 182 lbs
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Sammy Baugh, known as “Slingin’ Sammy,” revolutionized the game of football with his exceptional passing skills.
Playing for the Washington Redskins, now known as the Washington Commanders, Baugh’s 16-year career was marked by his unparalleled versatility. He could launch pinpoint passes as a quarterback, pin opponents deep as a punter, and disrupt plays as a defensive back.
His strategic gameplay propelled the team to two NFL Championships. Baugh’s innovative passing techniques set new standards for quarterbacks, making him a cornerstone in the team’s history and establishing a legacy that transformed how the game was played.
- Accolades:
- 2× NFL Champion (1937, 1942)
- NFL Most Valuable Player (1947)
- 2× First-team All-Pro (1940, 1942)
- 3× NFL Passing Yards leader (1940, 1947, 1948)
- NFL 1940s All-Decade Team
- Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame (1963)
2. Darrell Green
- Years Played for Team: 1983-2002
- Position: Cornerback
- Height/Weight: 5’9″/184 lbs
Darrell Green is celebrated as one of the greatest cornerbacks in NFL history, renowned for his exceptional speed and longevity in the league.
Spending his entire 20-year career with the Washington Commanders (formerly Washington Redskins), Green was a mainstay in their secondary, known for his lockdown coverage and ability to chase down the fastest receivers.
A cornerstone of the team’s defense, he played a pivotal role in two Super Bowl victories (1987, 1991). Green’s impact went beyond the field, as he became a beloved figure for his leadership and community involvement, cementing his legacy as a franchise icon.
- Accolades:
- 2x Super Bowl Champion (1987, 1991)
- 7x Pro Bowl selection
- 4x First-Team All-Pro
- NFL 1990s All-Decade Team
- Holds record for most consecutive seasons with at least one interception (19)
- Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame (2008)
3. Art Monk
- Years played for the team: 1980-1993
- Position: Wide Receiver
- Height/Weight: 6’3″, 210 lbs
Art Monk was an instrumental figure in the Washington Commanders‘ offense for over a decade. Renowned for his precise route running and exceptional hands, Monk was a reliable target across multiple generations of quarterbacks.
His quiet demeanor belied a fierce competitiveness and work ethic that made him a favorite among fans and teammates. Monk’s record-breaking 106 receptions during the 1984 season set a new standard in the NFL and epitomized his impact on the game.
His ability to convert vital plays in high-pressure situations left an indelible mark in the team’s history.
- Accolades:
- 3× Super Bowl Champion (XVII, XXII, XXVI)
- 3× Pro Bowl selection
- NFL receptions leader (1984)
- Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame (2008)
4. John Riggins
- Years Played for Team: 1976–1979, 1981–1985
- Position: Running Back
- Height/Weight: 6 ft 2 in, 230 lbs
John Riggins, known as “The Diesel,” was a cornerstone of the Washington Commanders (formerly Redskins) during his tenure with the team. Renowned for his power-running style and tough demeanor, Riggins became a fan favorite and a symbol of rugged determination.
He’s best remembered for his performance in Super Bowl XVII, where he rushed for a then-record 166 yards and scored the game-winning touchdown.
His ability to break tackles and stamina to carry the ball numerous times in a game made him indispensable. Riggins left an indelible mark on the franchise, both on and off the field, as a spirited leader and clutch performer.
- Accolades:
- Super Bowl XVII Champion (1983)
- Super Bowl XVII MVP
- NFL Comeback Player of the Year (1978)
- 5,335 rushing yards with Washington
- Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame (1992)
5. Joe Theismann
- Years Played for team: 1974-1985
- Position: Quarterback
- Height/Weight: 6’0″/192 lbs
Joe Theismann was a dynamic force for the Washington Commanders, leading the team with charisma and strategic acumen. Joining the team in 1974, Theismann transformed into a quintessential leader on the field.
Known for his quick decision-making and versatility, he played a crucial role in securing the team’s victory in Super Bowl XVII. His gritty playing style and ability to perform under pressure made him a beloved figure in Washington football folklore.
Though his career was cut short due to a devastating leg injury in 1985, his legacy as a tenacious and formidable quarterback endures.
- Accolades:
- Super Bowl Champion (XVII)
- NFL MVP (1983)
- Pro Bowl selection (1982, 1983)
- NFC Champion (1982, 1983)
- Washington Commanders Ring of Fame inductee
6. Sean Taylor
- Years Played for team: 2004-2007
- Position: Safety
- Height/Weight: 6’2″, 212 lbs
Sean Taylor was a dynamic safety whose brief career with the Washington Commanders left a lasting impact on the franchise and its fans. Known for his hard-hitting, physical style of play, Taylor was a defensive force, often shifting the momentum of games with his interceptions and disruptive tackles.
He played with a fierce competitive spirit that often intimidated opposing offenses. Taylor’s untimely death in 2007 tragically cut short a career that many believed was on a Hall of Fame trajectory. His legacy endures as he’s remembered not only for his on-field prowess but also for his passion for the game.
- Accolades:
- Pro Bowl selection (2006)
- First-team All-Pro (2007)
- 12 career interceptions
- 239 career tackles
7. Sonny Jurgensen
- Years Played for the Team: 1964–1974
- Position: Quarterback
- Height/Weight: 5’11” / 202 lbs
Sonny Jurgensen is widely regarded as one of the most talented quarterbacks ever to play for the Washington Commanders, known then as the Washington Redskins.
Renowned for his pinpoint passing accuracy and quick decision-making abilities, Jurgensen led the team with exceptional skill and finesse. His playing style was characterized by a strong arm and the ability to read defenses, making him a fan favorite.
One of the most memorable moments was Jurgensen’s performance in the 1967 season, where he led the NFL in several passing categories. His legacy with the team is significant, marked by his leadership and competitive spirit.
- Accolades:
- Five-time Pro Bowl selection (1964, 1966-1967, 1969)
- Two-time NFL passing yards leader (1966, 1967)
- Enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame (1983)
- NFL 1960s All-Decade Team
8. Charley Taylor
- Years played for team: 1964-1977
- Position: Wide Receiver
- Height/Weight: 6’3″, 210 lbs
Charley Taylor was an iconic wide receiver who spent his entire NFL career with the Washington Commanders, then known as the Washington Redskins. Known for his fluid routes and remarkable balance, Taylor revolutionized the wide receiver position with his athletic prowess.
He started as a running back and shifted seamlessly to wide receiver, showcasing his versatility and skill. Taylor was instrumental in leading Washington to the Super Bowl VII and retired as the all-time leader in receptions.
His impact on the game is enduring, as he set the standard for future generations of wide receivers.
- Accolades:
- 8-time Pro Bowl selection
- 2-time First-team All-Pro
- Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1984
- NFL’s all-time receptions leader at retirement with 649 catches
- Member of NFL 1960s All-Decade Team
9. Doug Williams
- Years Played for Team: 1986–1989
- Position: Quarterback
- Height/Weight: 6’4″, 220 lbs
Doug Williams made an indelible mark in Washington’s history as the first African American quarterback to start and win a Super Bowl. Known for his strong arm and resilience, Williams’ most memorable performance came during Super Bowl XXII, where he threw four touchdown passes in the second quarter alone, leading the team to a 42-10 victory over the Denver Broncos.
This victory shattered racial barriers and left an enduring legacy both on and off the field. Williams’ leadership and pioneering achievements have made him an enduring figure in the franchise’s history.
- Accolades:
- Super Bowl XXII Champion
- Super Bowl XXII Most Valuable Player
- Inducted into the Redskins Ring of Fame
10. Chris Hanburger
- Years Played for Washington Commanders: 1965-1978
- Position: Linebacker
- Height/Weight: 6’2″, 218 lbs
Chris Hanburger was a cornerstone of the Washington Commanders’ defense during his 14-year career with the team. Known for his cerebral approach to the game, Hanburger had a knack for reading opposing offenses and making critical plays.
He was famous for his durability and leadership on the field, rarely missing a game due to injury. A nine-time Pro Bowl selection, Hanburger’s playmaking ability was exemplified by his 19 career interceptions and numerous fumble recoveries.
His leadership and keen football instincts made him a respected figure in Washington, ultimately leading to his enshrinement in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
- Accolades:
- 9-time Pro Bowl selection
- 4-time First-Team All-Pro
- Washington Commanders Ring of Fame
- Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2011
- Recorded 19 career interceptions
