Expectations were high after two consecutive Super Bowl appearances, but the 1984 season found the Redskins coming up short against some of the other emerging powerhouses of the 1980s.

The season opened with disappointing losses to the Dolphins and 49ers, making it clear that it was not going to be easy to maintain the dominance the Skins had experienced in 1982 and 83. The team still produced 4 and 5 game winning streaks, including a sweep of Dallas, a 5-3 division record, and a 3rd straight NFC East title. In the playoffs, they met an up-and-coming Bears team and lost a close game at home.

Theismann and Riggins continued their productivity, although not quite matching their 1983 levels. The biggest individual story was Art Monk's NFL record 106 receptions.