Today in our series Redskins By The (Jersey) Numbers, we reach #91, a number worn by only a handful of players in Redskins history. Out of this small group of big men, two players in particular stand out from the rest — one for his stellar playing career to date, and the other for his longevity in the game both on and off the field.
Ryan Kerrigan
Kerrigan has been one of the most consistent and underrated pass rushers since entering the league as a first-round player in 2011. He was drafted 16th overall after the Redskins traded down with the Jaguars (they took Blaine Gabbert). Ryan Kerrigan has averaged 9.75 sacks a year and he’s never missed or not started a game over his 6-year career. He’s also made the Pro Bowl twice.
While it’s a bit premature to start talking about this, let’s bring it up: Ryan Kerrigan has a legitimate shot to make the Hall of Fame at the end of his career. If he continues to play at a similar level for the next 6 years (he’ll be 34 years old), Kerrigan will be among the all-time leaders in sack production.
Ryan is a tremendous player and person, and one of the best Redskins draft picks over the past decade along with Trent Williams, Jordan Reed and Kirk Cousins. He got engaged to his girlfriend Jessica Mazura last year. Interesting fact: Kerrigan is half deaf, after losing most of his hearing in his left ear from a severe ear infection as a child.
‘Him’ — aka Greg Manusky
The other notable Redskin to wear #91 was none other than current defensive coordinator Greg Manusky. While he was an undrafted linebacker out of NFL powerhouse Colgate in 1988, he managed through grit and determination to play in the league for 12 years, including 3 years for the Redskins. He also played for the Chiefs and Vikings.
As a player he had a reputation for being a real ‘man’s man’. Hall of Famer Russ Grimm nicknamed Manusky ‘Him’ because of his ruthless, take-no-prisoners mentality on the field. While he barely started any games for the Redskins, he was a core special teamer and well-respected among his teammates.
Manusky is better known today for his coaching career. He was the defensive coordinator for both the 49ers and Colts, and was promoted to the same position for the Redskins this year after serving as the outside linebackers coach in 2016.
Poll
Will Ryan Kerrigan make the Hall of Fame?
This poll is closed
-
29%
Yes; his career stats are actually similar to other players in consideration
-
33%
No; he’s good — but not that good
-
37%
It’s too early to think about that.