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USA Today Sports Media Group
USA Today Sports Media Group
Sport
Ivan Lambert

Commanders season opener in 22 days: Washington’s best No. 22

Commanders Wire continues a countdown to Washington’s season opener for 2023 in 22 days. Who was the team’s best player wearing No. 22?

Three players deserve mention who wore No. 22 in franchise history.

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Curtis Jordan (1981-86), after five seasons in Tampa Bay, came to Washington for six seasons. A safety, Jordan started 57 games for Washington, intercepting 11 passes, and recovering five fumbles (one touchdown). Jordan was a member of the 1982 Super Bowl championship team and the 1983 Super Bowl team.

Carlos Rogers (2005-2010) was drafted 9th overall by Washington in the 2005 NFL draft. In his six Washington seasons, Rogers started 68 games at corner, intercepting 8 passes (one touchdown), defended 76 passes, forced 4 fumbles, and recovered 3. He was credited with 302 tackles (206 solo, 42 assists), including 7 tackles for a loss. Rogers led the NFL in 2008 with 24 passes defended.

Mike Thomas (1975-78) was a running back Washington drafted 108th overall in the 1975 draft. Thomas was a pleasant surprise when he rushed for 919 yards and was voted AP Offensive Rookie of the Year. In his second season, he rushed for 1,101 yards, averaging 4.3 a carry and was a Pro Bowler. He rushed for 3,359 yards and 15 rushing touchdowns in his four Washington seasons. A good receiver out of the backfield, Thomas was on the receiving end of 131 receptions for 1,405 yards (10.7 average) and 11 receiving touchdowns. In a 1976 game against the St Louis Cardinals, Thomas exploded for 195 yards rushing.

 

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