Commanders Wire continues a countdown to the Commanders season opener for 2023 in 61 days. Who was Washington’s best player wearing number 61?
Dennis Johnson (1974-77) was drafted by Washington in the 13th round (337) in the 1973 NFL draft. After a season on special teams, Johnson became the starting right defensive end in 1975, starting all 14 games and collecting 5.0 sacks. Johnson continued as the starter for the next two seasons (1976-77) when he accomplished his best season in 1977, registering 10.0 sacks. But in 1978, Washington picked up veteran Coy Bacon, and subsequently Johnson was released during the preseason. He played one more season (in Buffalo).
Fran O’Brien (1960-66) was drafted 35th overall by the Cleveland Browns in the 1959 NFL draft. The Redskins traded for O’Brien in 1960, and he became their immediate starter at left guard. After two seasons starting each game at guard, the former Michigan State Spartan then became the starting right tackle for the next four seasons (1962-65) in Washington. During the 1966 season (at age 30) O’Brien was traded to the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Casey Rabach (2005-2010) came to Washington after three seasons with the Ravens. In his six seasons with Washington, Rabach started and played 95 of a possible 96 games. Rabach, who was the starting center for those six seasons, signed a new three-year deal in the offseason leading up to the 2010 season. Rabach was released in July 2011, just prior to his 34th birthday. The 2010 season became his last in the NFL.
Tweeting at the@Commanders
everyday until they follow me…Day 782
It is Casey Rabach (#61) days until the Washington Commanders play in their first ever regular season football game! #WashingtonCommanders #HTTC #HAIL #Commanders #TakeCommand #Day782 7️⃣8️⃣2️⃣ pic.twitter.com/bWQMZp6A7E
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