Redskins by the (Jersey) Numbers: #88 - Pierre Garcon

Pierre Garcon spent just five seasons in Washington, but he left an undeniable mark for the Redskins.

After a successful start to his career while playing for the Indianapolis Colts, Garcon came to the Redskins via free agency prior to the 2012 season. Although he missed several games with a foot injury, Garcon contributed to a potent Washington offense that helped earn the NFC East title.

Fully healthy the following year, Garcon broke out. He was the NFL’s leading receiver, with 113 catches. He piled up a career-best 1,346 yards as well.

Garcon remained productive the following three seasons. In 2016, his final year with the Redskins, Garcon hauled in 79 balls for 1,041 yards. His overall tenure with Washington saw him catch 376 passes for 4,549 yards, scoring 21 touchdowns. More than that, Garcon was known for his toughness and fiery intensity.

Garcon’s stiffest competition at #88 is Pat Richter, who played for the Skins from 1963 through 1970. Richter, a College Football Hall-of-Famer, was a two-time All-American end at Wisconsin who also punted. He’s most noteworthy for the fact that he played both roles for the Redskins, although his contributions as a punter were more consistent than those as an offensive player. He finished his career with 99 catches for 1,315 yards and 14 touchdowns.

Garcon has a decided edge over Richter in Pro Football Reference’s Approximate Value, by a 36-25 count. Receiver Danny “Lightning” Buggs is third at 17.

One note about another player on that list: Rick “Doc” Walker doesn’t get properly scored under the AV system because his contributions were as a blocking tight end / H-back. He “only” has 7 AV points, but Walker’s play as a member of the Hogs shouldn’t be overlooked.

Ultimately, though, Garcon gets the call. While his time in Washington was relatively brief—perhaps not as long as some of us would have liked—Pierre Garcon undoubtedly had a real impact for the Redskins. He’s the pick for Washington’s all-time #88.

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