The season began with the team trying to improve on their 8–6 record from 1975, which they did, finishing 10–4, second in the NFC East behind the Dallas Cowboys.
They would be eliminated from the NFL playoffs by the Minnesota Vikings by the score of 35–20.
This was the first season as a Redskin for Hall of Fame running back John Riggins, signed as a free agent after spending the first five seasons of his career with the New York Jets.
This was also the last season in which the Redskins would make the playoffs under Hall of Fame head coach George Allen.
[1] Running backs (RB) Wide receivers (WR) Tight ends (TE) Defensive linemen (DL) Defensive backs (DB) Special teams Reserve