Joe Theismann, the legendary quarterback for the Washington Commanders, has made it clear that he does not want to be the one to decide whether Stefon Diggs can wear his iconic No. 7 jersey. This discussion has resurfaced following Diggs’ recent signing with the Commanders, as he expressed interest in donning the number that has remained untouched since Theismann's playing days.
In 2019, the situation was quite different when rookie quarterback Dwayne Haskins was drafted by the Commanders, despite mixed feelings from the team’s personnel department regarding his first-round selection. Haskins, who wore No. 7 at Ohio State, sought permission to wear the same number in the NFL. Theismann, who had not seen his former number worn since his retirement in 1985, ultimately granted Haskins permission, placing him in a challenging position as the decision was left to him.
Fast forward to the present, and the conversation has come full circle with Diggs’ request. During an interview on 106.7 The Fan, Theismann stated, "The jersey belongs to the football team. I was honored to wear it. I will leave it to the Commanders to make that decision." This statement underscores Theismann's desire to avoid the complexities that arose during Haskins' tenure.
Diggs, who has built a reputation as one of the NFL's top wide receivers, took to Instagram to rally support from Commanders fans, asking them to help him secure Theismann's blessing for the number. In his post, he wrote, "Y'all gotta help me...get the GOAT to bless me with that 7." This playful reference to Theismann as the 'GOAT' (Greatest of All Time) highlights the respect Diggs has for the former quarterback.
The history of jersey number retirements within the Commanders organization adds another layer to this discussion. The team has retired several numbers in honor of its legends, including Sonny Jurgensen (9), Sean Taylor (21), and Art Monk (81). Each of these players left an indelible mark on the franchise, with Taylor’s retirement particularly poignant due to his tragic death. Theismann’s No. 7, however, remains in limbo, raising questions about the criteria for jersey retirements within the organization.
While Theismann is celebrated for his contributions to the team, including leading them to a Super Bowl victory in 1982 and earning the AP MVP award in 1983, there is ongoing debate about whether his legacy warrants the retirement of his jersey. His career, while notable, was marked by ups and downs, leading some to question if the honor of a retired jersey should be reserved for a select few who consistently excelled at the highest levels.
As the Commanders navigate this situation, the decision on whether to allow Diggs to wear No. 7 ultimately lies with the team. Theismann's stance is clear: he respects the history and significance of the number but believes it is up to the organization to determine its future. With Diggs now in the fold, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how this situation unfolds.
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