Honestly, walking into a stadium today and seeing a Doug Williams football jersey is different than seeing just any retired legend's gear. It’s not just about nostalgia. It’s not even just about the burgundy and gold. When you see that number 17, you’re looking at a piece of history that basically broke the NFL’s "glass ceiling" for quarterbacks.
Most people know the basics: Doug Williams was the first Black quarterback to win a Super Bowl. But if you actually look at what happened during Super Bowl XXII, the jersey becomes more than just a piece of polyester. It represents one of the most insane, dominant quarters of football ever played.
The Quarter That Changed Everything
In 1988, the Washington Redskins (now the Commanders) were down 10-0 against John Elway and the Denver Broncos after the first quarter. Williams had even twisted his knee and had to hobble off the field. It looked like a disaster. Then, the second quarter started.
Williams came back out and proceeded to throw for four touchdowns in a single quarter. He didn't just play well; he was essentially perfect. By halftime, Washington was up 35-10. He finished the game with 340 passing yards and the MVP trophy.
When you buy a Doug Williams throwback, that’s the energy you're wearing. It’s the "never count me out" vibe.
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What to Look for in a Doug Williams Football Jersey
If you’re hunting for one today, you’ve basically got two main paths: the modern Nike "Legacy" versions or the Mitchell & Ness "Throwbacks." They are not the same thing.
Mitchell & Ness is the go-to for most collectors. They specialize in that vintage feel, using heavier mesh and stitched numbers. Their "Legacy" series usually replicates the late-80s look with the proper font for the 17 and "WILLIAMS" across the back.
Nike versions are more common in the official team stores. These are usually the "Game" jersey style—lighter, more breathable, and designed for actually wearing to a game in 80-degree weather without passing out. However, most of these use screen-printed or heat-sealed graphics rather than the heavy embroidery.
Sizing Can Be a Nightmare
Here is something nobody tells you: Mitchell & Ness jerseys fit weird. If you’re used to modern Nike jerseys that are tailored and slim, a Mitchell & Ness Doug Williams jersey will feel like a tent in your usual size.
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- Mitchell & Ness: They run big and boxy. If you want a "normal" fit, you might want to size down.
- Nike Game Jerseys: These are more "true to size" but still have that loose football cut.
- The "Hogettes" Factor: If you're going for that authentic 80s DC look, it's supposed to be a little oversized.
Why the Number 17 Matters
Williams wore number 17 throughout his time in Washington, but he actually wore 12 when he was lighting it up for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers earlier in his career. You’ll occasionally see a Bucs #12 jersey out there, which is a deep-cut fan favorite.
But the #17 is the one in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. The actual jersey he wore during that 42-10 blowout in San Diego is sitting behind glass in Canton, Ohio. It’s got the grass stains and the battle scars to prove what happened that night.
Genuine vs. Knockoff
Be careful on secondary sites. Real Mitchell & Ness jerseys should have a "jock tag" on the bottom left that includes the player's name and the year (usually 1987 or 1988 for Doug). If the stitching on the "17" looks bubbly or the burgundy looks more like a bright cherry red, it’s probably a fake.
The official burgundy is a deep, rich color—almost like a red wine. The gold should be more of a "varsity gold," not a bright neon yellow.
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The Legacy Beyond the Fabric
Doug Williams didn't just retire and disappear. He’s been a massive part of the Washington front office for years. He’s mentored young quarterbacks and helped the franchise transition into the Commanders era.
Wearing his jersey isn't just about celebrating a game from 1988. It's about respecting a guy who stayed with the organization through the good, the bad, and the name changes.
Where to Buy One Right Now
You’ve got a few solid options if you want the real deal:
- The Official Commanders Pro Shop: Best for the Nike versions.
- Mitchell & Ness Website: Best for the high-end, stitched authentic throwbacks.
- Fanatics / NFL Shop: Usually carries a mix of both.
Pro Tip: If you see a "Washington Football Team" version of the Williams jersey, grab it. It was only produced for a short window during the name transition and has become a bit of a collector's item for fans who lived through those weird bridge years.
Before you drop $150 on a new jersey, check the wash instructions. Most of the high-end Mitchell & Ness jerseys are "dry flat" only. If you toss that thing in a high-heat dryer, the numbers will wrinkle faster than a cheap suit. Keep it fresh, keep it classic, and wear that 17 with some pride.
Next Steps for Your Collection:
Check the "Legacy" section of the Mitchell & Ness site to see if they have the 1987 home burgundy or the 1987 road white in stock, as the road white is significantly harder to find and much more of a "statement" piece for die-hard fans. Once you have the jersey, look into a shadowbox frame if you plan on displaying it rather than wearing it; the heavy mesh of the authentic versions holds up beautifully under LED lighting.