John Riggins Biography

Robert John Riggins (born August 4, 1949), nicknamed "The Diesel" and "Riggo", is a former American football running back who played professionally in the National Football League (NFL) for the New York Jets and Washington Redskins. He was known for his powerful running style and productivity well into the latter years of his career; in 1983 at age 34, he rushed for an NFL single-season record 24 touchdowns, and again led the league in rushing touchdowns the following season at age 35. Although he had only one Pro Bowl appearance in his career, Riggins had his greatest success in the postseason, and was named the Most Valuable Player of Super Bowl XVII. Riggins was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1992.