In a heartfelt surprise, the Washington Commanders announced that they will retire Darrell Green's jersey during the upcoming 2024 season. Green, considered one of the greatest players in franchise history, dedicated two decades of his career to the team, helping them secure two Super Bowl victories and establish themselves as a powerhouse in the 1980s and 90s.

Having been a seven-time Pro Bowler, four-time All-Pro, and the recipient of the 1996 Walter Payton Man of the Year award, Green's jersey will now hang alongside the likes of Sonny Jurgensen (No. 9), Bobby Mitchell (No. 49), Sammy Baugh (No. 33), and Sean Taylor (No. 21) as the only players in Washington history to receive this illustrious honor.

"I'm humbly grateful," an emotional Green expressed upon hearing the news. "I feel like crying just thinking about it right now. This means a lot to me." The special announcement took place at the OrthoVirginia Training Center at Commanders Park, where Green, accompanied by his family, thought he was attending a video shoot to promote the NFL Draft. Little did he know, the day was reserved to honor his incredible contributions to the franchise.

Surrounded by loved ones, all wearing No. 28 jerseys, Green's eyes welled up with tears as he received congratulatory calls from Managing Partner Josh Harris, Limited Partner Earvin "Magic" Johnson, and Limited Partner Mitch Rales, who donned Green's number as a testament to his impact.

"I would've never dreamed this," Green expressed in disbelief. "I was so shocked. It's almost like it breathed life into me. I have never been so surprised, shocked. My head is still spinning, but I am a million percent humbled."

Green, a first-round pick by Washington in 1983, became an integral part of the team's defense from the start of his career. He showcased his skills early on, returning a 61-yard punt for a touchdown during his rookie year's preseason. Over the course of his remarkable 20-season tenure, Green appeared in 295 games, with an impressive 258 starts.

Green's impact extended beyond individual achievements, as he played a crucial role in Washington's success throughout his career. Under his leadership, the franchise boasted 12 winning seasons and made eight playoff appearances. Green's contributions helped guide the team to three Super Bowl appearances, ultimately clinching victories against the Denver Broncos and Buffalo Bills.

Reflecting on the surprise announcement, Green emphasized the significance of having his family present to share in this momentous occasion. "I got grandkids and sons-in-law and daughters-in-law who were not here on the ride. This would be the equivalent to them being at one of the championship games or the Super Bowl. This, to me, was as close as we would ever get to what that was, if we could give them a picture of it. I'm grateful for that."

Not only was Green an integral part of Washington's success on the field, but he also etched his name in NFL history as one of the greatest cornerbacks of all time. He holds team records for the most career interceptions (54), game starts (258), games played (295), consecutive seasons (20), longest fumble returned for a touchdown (78 yards), and interceptions returned for touchdowns (6). Additionally, Green holds records for the most consecutive seasons with an interception (19), tied with Jerry Rice for the most seasons with at least one touch (20), and was a four-time winner of the NFL's Fastest Man Competition.

Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2008, Green's impact was not limited to the gridiron. Off the field, he devoted his time and efforts to giving back to the community through the Darrell Green Youth Foundation. Founded as a faith-based organization, its mission is to empower children to become leaders and positive influencers in their families and communities. Through after-school and summer programs, the foundation aids children aged 5-11 in areas such as reading, writing, math, and English.

With the surprise announcement, Green was reminded of the immense impact he has made, not just within his family, but also within the team and the community. His jersey retirement serves as a fitting tribute to his tremendous legacy, honoring his unparalleled contributions to the Washington Commanders franchise.

For additional updates on Darrell Green's jersey retirement and all related information, visit the dedicated webpage to stay in the loop.