Ryan Kerrigan spent 10 seasons and one day in the burgundy and gold before retiring on Friday. Kerrigan, the No. 16 overall pick in the 2011 NFL draft, spent his first 10 seasons with Washington before playing his final season with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2021.
Instead of Kerrigan just retiring after last season, he wanted to retire as a member of the Washington organization. Therefore, Kerrigan signed a one-day contract with the Commanders so he could retire with the team he loved and the fans who loved him back.
The Commanders released a retirement letter from Kerrigan to his former teammates, coaches, the community, his family and the fans.
Here’s what Kerrigan said to Washington fans:
And to my beloved Washington fans: you guys made my NFL experience amazing. I felt at home in the DMV from day one. Whether it was cheering for me on game days, supporting my philanthropic endeavors or just saying “hi” at the grocery store, you made me feel like one of your own. I’m proud to call D.C. “home” and I’m so thankful that I was drafted here because of the way you’ve treated me and my family. I’ll love you guys forever.
Ryan Kerrigan was a bright spot during a time in Washington’s franchise history when there were a lot of dark times.