Commanders Wire continues a countdown to the Commanders season opener for 2023 in 58 days. Who was Washington’s best player wearing number 58?
Antonio Pierce (2001-2004) played his college ball at Arizona and was not drafted. Signed by Washington, defensive coordinator Kurt Schottenheimer had Pierce start eight games in 2001. Defensive coordinators Marvin Lewis (2002) and George Edwards in 2003 started Pierce in only one of the 23 games he played. In 2004, Pierce had his best year in Washington, playing for new defensive coordinator Gregg Williams. He registered 87 solo tackles, two fumble recoveries and two interceptions, including a 78-yard interception touchdown return against the 49ers. Unfortunately, when his contract expired, the New York Giants offered Pierce more than Washington. Thus, Pierce played five seasons with the Giants, which included a Pro Bowl 2006 season.
