Commanders season opener in 78 days: Washington’s best No. 78?

Commanders Wire continues a countdown to the Commanders season opener for 2023 in 78 days. Who was Washington’s best player wearing number 78?

Ron Snidow was a defensive tackle/end for Washington from 1963-67. The former Oregon Duck collected 6.5, 5.0, 5.5 and 7.5 sacks in the 1964 through 1967 seasons. In his five Washington seasons, he totaled 24.5 sacks while recovering 7 fumbles.

Bruce Smith came to Washington in 2000, playing his last four seasons for the Redskins. With the Bills for 15 seasons, Smith totaled 171 sacks. In his last four seasons, Smith was 37 to 40 years of age. Yet he still produced sack totals of 10, 5, 9 and 5. Smith also forced 8 fumbles (recovered one) and registered 36 tackles for a loss.

Kory Lichtensteiger started 75 of his 77 games in his 7 seasons in Washington. From 2010-2013, Lichtensteiger spent most of his time at left guard before playing primarily at center in 2014-2016. He was a major factor up front during the 2012 season in which Alfred Morris rushed for 1,613 yards and Robert Griffin added 815 yards.

Tim Johnson wasn’t drafted until the 6th round (141 overall) out of Penn State. Not known for his movement, Johnson became a bull inside at defensive tackle for the Redskins from 1990-1995. He also forced three fumbles and recovered four. Johnson generated 20.5 sacks for Washington and started every game for the 1991 Super Bowl Championship team, teaming with Eric Williams to form a tremendous run-stopping duo of defensive tackles.

Story originally appeared on Commanders Wire