The Washington Commanders’ offseason has been nothing short of electric, with the homecoming of star wide receiver Stefon Diggs serving as a major focal point of the recent roster moves. But as the Maryland native prepares to take the field for his hometown team, a new storyline is unfolding off the gridiron—one centered around a digit that carries immense historical weight in the DMV: Number 7.
Diggs has reportedly set his sights on wearing No. 7 for the upcoming season. For most franchises, a veteran star requesting a specific number is standard business. But in Washington, No. 7 isn’t just a number; it is a direct link to the franchise’s glory days, belonging to legendary quarterback Joe Theismann, who led the team to a Super Bowl XVII victory.
The jersey has been unofficially retired since Theismann’s career-ending injury in 1985, meaning Diggs can’t simply claim it from the equipment manager. He has to ask for the legend’s blessing.
The Dwayne Haskins Precedent
This isn’t the first time Theismann has been approached to dust off his iconic jersey. In 2019, Washington drafted former Ohio State standout Dwayne Haskins in the first round. Haskins, who wore No. 7 in college, respectfully reached out to Theismann for permission to carry the number into the pros.
Theismann granted the request, sharing at the time that they had a great conversation and that he wanted the rookie to succeed without worrying about jersey drama. Haskins became the first player to wear the number for Washington in over three decades.
“I’ve given him permission. Not that I feel like I needed to, but he was respectful enough to ask. … I want the kid to be successful.” — Joe Theismann in 2019 on Dwayne Haskins.
A Different Set of Circumstances
While the Haskins situation established a precedent, the context surrounding Diggs is quite different. Haskins was drafted as a potential franchise quarterback and the supposed face of the future. Diggs, conversely, arrives in Washington as an established veteran on a one-year deal, leaving some fans and pundits debating whether a temporary addition—even one with his All-Pro pedigree—warrants un-retiring a legend’s number.
Furthermore, Diggs is a wide receiver. While the NFL relaxed its jersey numbering rules in recent years to allow pass-catchers to wear single digits, No. 7 in Washington has always been deeply associated with the quarterback position.
What Happens Next?
If Theismann ultimately gives Diggs the green light, it will be a monumental nod of respect from a franchise icon to a hometown star eager to make his mark. It could also symbolize the changing culture for the Commanders—one where the team honors its past while fully embracing its present playmakers.
Until the official roster numbers drop, fans will be waiting to see if Stefon Diggs takes the field in that storied No. 7, or if he’ll have to forge his new Washington legacy wearing something else.
