It’s not the end of the season yet, but the Washington Commanders are already making changes. On Friday, Washington announced a big change — and no, this doesn’t impact the on-field product. The Commanders are moving their business operations from FedEx Field to the University of Maryland.
Washington’s new offices will be at the Discovery District at UMD’s College Park campus. College Park is less than 10 miles and around 20 minutes from FedEx Field.
The reason for the change is due to increased demand for the suites at FedEx Field. Since the new ownership group led by Josh Harris took over in July to accommodate more fan demand, the Commanders have sold out all six home games thus far this season. Washington has struggled on the field, though, falling to 4-9 after Sunday’s home loss to the Dolphins in a game where FedEx Field was taken over by Miami fans.
Here’s a statement from Commanders president Jason Wright:
“Commanders fans are eager to support their team, and we’re dedicated to ensuring the best experience possible both on and off the field,” Wright said. “Moving our headquarters will provide exciting new spaces to take in home games and will provide for greater collaboration for our business staff and partnership with the University of Maryland.”
Here’s more on the new location:
The location of the new offices on the fourth floor of the building at 4600 River Road was chosen to foster connection between the university, local businesses and community. It is in the heart of the Discovery District, a 150-acre hub of research and innovation on the east side of the UMD campus, whose 60-plus tenants include federal agencies such as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, businesses including Capital One, Adobe and Raytheon, and amenities including The Hotel at the University of Maryland and the Hall CP.
University of Maryland chief strategy officer for economic development, Ken Ulman, welcomed the Commanders:
“The University of Maryland proudly welcomes the Washington Commanders to campus as part of our growing Discovery District,” Ulman said. “The proximity to this new home for the Commanders is an incredible opportunity for our students pursuing invaluable internships and our emerging sports management program. We look forward to all the possibilities for partnership.”
The Commanders are expected to move into their new offices in early 2024.