Gerald Riggs, a powerful running back, left an indelible mark on the National Football League during his career. Born on November 6, 1960, in Tullos, Louisiana, Riggs grew up honing his skills on the football field, eventually earning a scholarship to Arizona State University. At Arizona State, he showcased his talent and physical prowess, which caught the attention of NFL scouts.
In the 1982 NFL Draft, the Atlanta Falcons selected Riggs in the first round as the ninth overall pick. His arrival in Atlanta marked the beginning of a remarkable tenure with the team. Riggs quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with in the Falcons' backfield. Known for his bruising running style and ability to break tackles, he became a central figure in the Falcons' offensive strategy.
Riggs' breakout season came in 1984 when he rushed for 1,486 yards and 13 touchdowns, earning him a spot in the Pro Bowl. This performance was followed by another stellar season in 1985, where he amassed 1,719 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns, once again earning Pro Bowl honors. His ability to consistently gain yardage and find the end zone made him one of the league's top running backs during this period.
In 1986, Riggs continued his dominance on the field, rushing for 1,327 yards and nine touchdowns, securing his third consecutive Pro Bowl selection. His tenure with the Falcons was marked by his ability to carry the offensive load, often being the focal point of the team's game plan. Riggs' physicality and endurance allowed him to excel in a league that demanded toughness and durability from its running backs.
However, as the years progressed, injuries began to take a toll on Riggs' performance. In 1987, his production dipped, and he was limited to just 665 rushing yards. Despite the setbacks, Riggs remained a valuable asset to the Falcons, providing veteran leadership and experience to the team.
In 1989, Riggs was traded to the Washington Redskins, where he sought to revitalize his career. Although his role with the Redskins was more limited compared to his time in Atlanta, Riggs made a significant contribution during the 1991 season. He played a crucial role in the Redskins' postseason success, scoring two touchdowns in Super Bowl XXVI, helping the team secure a victory over the Buffalo Bills.
Riggs retired from professional football after the 1991 season, leaving behind a legacy of hard-nosed running and consistent production. Over his career, he accumulated 8,188 rushing yards and 69 touchdowns, numbers that reflect his ability to perform at a high level throughout his time in the league.
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