Commanders Wire continues a countdown to the Commanders season opener for 2023 in 56 days. Who was Washington’s best player wearing number 56?
LaVar Arrington (2000-2005) was an exciting linebacker out of Penn State who made so many splash plays he was drafted second overall in the 2000 NFL draft by Washington. Following his rookie season, Arrington produced greatly, earning three consecutive Pro Bowler designations. He was voted AP All-Pro second team in 2001. In 2002 Arrington produced 12 tackles for a loss, 95 combined tackles (70 solo, 25 assisted), 8 passes defended, 3 fumbles recovered (one touchdown), and his career-high 11 quarterback sacks. Arrington led the NFL in 2003 with 6 forced fumbles. He also was voted AP All-Pro second team. He had six quarterback sacks and 9 tackles for a loss. Unfortunately, injuries and frustration outlined his final two seasons in Washington, resulting in his playing in only 17 of the 32 games.
ON THIS DAY in 2000 — Dallas Cowboys defeated the Washington Redskins 32-12 at Texas Stadium … but at a cost
In the 1st quarter, Troy Aikman was hit by LaVar Arrington and suffered his tenth concussion … it would be the final play of his Hall of Fame career #DallasCowboys pic.twitter.com/jCrfsLbi7n
— 𝗧𝗥𝗢𝗬 𝗛𝗨𝗚𝗛𝗘𝗦 (@TommySledge) December 10, 2020
Len Hauss (1964-77) was an iron man for Washington, playing in 196 games, starting 194 over his 14-year career for the Burgundy and Gold. Hauss was drafted No. 115 overall out of Georgia. His rookie season he did not start two games. However, from that time forward in his 14 NFL seasons, Hauss never missed a game or a start. Hauss was a Pro Bowler for five seasons. He was voted AP All-Pro second team twice. He helped cement the offensive line that produced Larry Brown rushing for 5,000 yards in 5 seasons (14 game schedules). He started and was a key offensive leader for the playoffs for five teams (only four teams qualified in each conference) and the 1972 NFC Champion and Super Bowl VII team. He was named one of the top 70 Washington Redskins in 2002. Hauss died on Dec. 15, 2021, at age 79.
Len Hauss #9 8×10 Signed w/COA Washington Redskins 22117 https://t.co/h64ZBy0TYi 8×10 Signed w/COA Washington Redskins 22117 pic.twitter.com/hoJfQFeWKM
— Sports Autographs (@SportsAutograp1) February 27, 2017
