On Thursday, the Washington Commanders announced that they will retire the jersey number of franchise legend Darrell Green during the 2024 season. Green, who spent all 20 seasons of his NFL career in Washington, was invited to the team’s training facility to record a video for the 2024 NFL Draft class. However, little did he know that he was asked to read a script announcing the retirement of his jersey number.
Green expressed his shock and humility upon hearing the news. “I would’ve never dreamed this. I was so shocked,” he said. “It’s almost like it breathed life into me.” Despite being retired since 2006, Green has remained an active member of the Commanders organization and has been involved in various community initiatives.
The decision to retire Green’s number comes as no surprise to many fans and players alike. Green had an illustrious career, missing only a total of 25 games and recording 54 interceptions, six of which were returned for touchdowns. He is a two-time Super Bowl winner, seven-time Pro Bowler, four-time All-Pro, and the 1996 Walter Payton Man of the Year. In addition to these accolades, Green is also a member of the franchise’s Ring of Fame and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2008.
Joining him in this exclusive club are four other players: Sonny Jurgensen, Bobby Mitchell, Sammy Baugh, and Sean Taylor. This makes Green one of only five players in franchise history to have their number retired. A date will be finalized to honor Green once the 2024 NFL schedule is released in May.
Overall, Darrell Green’s retirement from his jersey number is a fitting tribute to one of the greatest players in Washington Commanders’ history. His impact on both on and off the field will continue to be felt for years to come as he joins an elite group of players who have had their numbers retired by the franchise.
