Tag: name change

New poll reveals most D.C. fans dislike Commanders’ name

A new Washington Post poll reveals DC-area sports fans hate or dislike the “Commanders” name.

It’s been over two years since the Washington NFL franchise revealed its new name, the Commanders. The reveal, the name, and everything that followed were viewed as mostly a dud by a large portion of the fan base.

Last summer, the Commanders were sold to a group led by Josh Harris. Harris and some of his partners mentioned the former name on multiple occasions. Limited partner Magic Johnson even said all things were on the table regarding another name change.

Since then, Harris and others have acknowledged issues with the current name, but changing it is not a priority—for now, if ever.

Harris and his ownership group have a lot on their plates. First, they hired a new general manager and coach. By all accounts, Harris did well there. His new GM, Adam Peters, built the roster while Harris focused on other issues, such as finding a new home. The Commanders are in talks with D.C., Maryland, and Virginia for a potential new stadium.

The name remains a big issue for many Washington fans. Sure, there are some who are happy with the current direction and just want a winning product. There are others who will never come back unless the name is changed. One thing we do know is that the old name is not coming back. That doesn’t mean Harris and his group can’t change it.

A new poll from The Washington Post reveals that most D.C.-area sports fans either dislike or even hate the name.

Here’s the poll, courtesy of The Post:

Washington Post-Schar School Poll

Hardly anyone loves the name; others like it, some have no opinion, but many hate or dislike the “Commanders” name.

Here’s what one fan said in the Post’s story:

“I’ve been a fan for a long time, since I was a little kid, and obviously, the old name was a little problematic. I saw that,” D.C. resident Andrew Ravenscroft said. “I was in favor of changing it. But it’s just kind of a strange name.”

This is a fan admitting the old name needed to go. So, this isn’t a case where it’s “Redskins or nothing else.”

There are many interesting nuggets in the story. One thing remains clear: The name remains an issue. Sure, another portion of the fan base wants to move on from it, but if the name remains in its current form, some fans will continue to stay away.

For decades, the Washington, D.C., area was all about the NFL team. The other major sports were secondary. The poll revealed that local sports fans currently prefer the Nationals (MLB) and Capitals (NHL) over the Commanders.

A few winning seasons could change everything, even those who are looking for a name change. But something we all know too well, you can’t make everyone happy.

Marjorie Harris: ‘For now, it’s the Commanders’

Marjorie Harris discusses potential name change. Two words stood out.

Almost four years later, the name debate continues to be a topic of conversation for the Washington Commanders.

On Wednesday, owner Josh Harris’s wife, Marjorie, led a Day of Service in Washington, D.C., which also included president Jason Wright, several team legends, and the entire 2024 rookie class.

At one point during the Commanders’ final stop at a local D.C. school, Mrs. Harris met with the local media where she was asked about the name.

She didn’t back down from the question either.

“As you would imagine, everybody has an opinion about the name,” Harris said. “Some good, some bad, some in the middle. And I think that, we have a lot of work to do, and so that name issue is going to be on the side for now until we can get things going.”

Harris’s answer was in line with everything else we’ve heard from this regime. They didn’t shut it down but said the on-field product, the fans and the community were the top priorities.

But that wasn’t all she said.

“Quite frankly, I had a whole day out in the community, and I kept referring to the team as the Commanders. And you know what? Sounds pretty good to me. So, for now, it’s the Commanders.”

The two key words here: “For now.”

Harris acknowledged that the name remains an issue. While another name change isn’t happening imminently, it remains a possibility down the road.

Harris handled this as well as anyone possibly could.

Montez Sweat strongly preferred Washington’s old name

Montez Sweat liked old name, embarrassed by “Commanders” name.

The Washington Redskins selected Montez Sweat in the first round of the 2019 NFL draft. On Oct. 31, 2023, the Washington Commanders traded Sweat to the Chicago Bears for a 2024 second-round pick.

In Sweat’s five seasons with the team, Washington had three different team names because former owner Dan Snyder was forced to sell in the summer of 2020: Redskins, Football Team and Commanders.

In Tuesday’s episode of the “Green Light” podcast with Chris Long, Sweat was asked about Washington’s various names.

He clearly preferred the “Redskins” moniker.

While Sweat is no longer on the team, having signed a lucrative four-year extension with the Bears, he will endear himself to many Washington fans due to his preference for the old name.

As for the new name, Sweat said he was “embarrassed” when he first heard it.

“Oh my god, when I heard that, bro, I was embarrassed,” Sweat said. “I was so embarrassed that when people asked who I played for, I said Washington.”

Several Washington fans would agree with him.

Sweat appeared in 67 games for Washington, recording 222 tackles, including 47 for loss, 35.5 sacks and 10 forced fumbles.

Former NFL player and current analyst hates the Commanders’ name

You can add another to the list who doesn’t like the team name.

When Josh Harris and his ownership group took control of the Washington Commanders in July, they made it clear their immediate priorities were not another rebranding but instead focusing on the upcoming season and improving FedEx Field.

However, they didn’t rule it out, either, with limited partner Magic Johnson saying on NBC’s TODAY Show, “Everything was on the table.”

The rebranding, of course, centers around the team’s name. While many longtime fans hate the name “Commanders,” others are excited about the franchise again since Dan Snyder sold the team.

Fans aren’t the only ones who don’t like the name. Former players have been outspoken regarding the name. Others around the NFL hate the name, too.

Former NFL player Solomon Wilcots has worked in the media world for years. You can add him to the list of those who hate Washington’s name.

“Everyone knows they should change that name, by the way,” Wilcots said on “Grant and Danny” of 106.7 The Fan this week in Las Vegas via Lou DiPietro of Audacy. When co-host Grant Paulsen asked Wilcots if that name worked for him, he quickly replied, “No.”

“Is it good for you?” Wilcots said. “We are all almost unanimous about that. That’s a crowded bus.”

Paulsen then told Wilcots that Harris sometimes chooses to use Washington Football instead of saying “Commanders,” something Wilcots appreciated.

“Smart man! I love Washington Football Team as a name,” Wilcots said. “That was better than this thing.”

The Commanders used the name “Football Team” for two seasons following their initial name change in July 2020.

Washington just completed GM and head coaching searches and must finish its coaching staff. Next, the Commanders look toward free agency and the NFL draft. A new name isn’t in the cards — for now.

Commanders DT Jonathan Allen mentions team’s old name

This should make Washington fans happy.

Local radio hosts from the two most popular sports talk radio shows in the Washington, D.C., area were together on Friday for an event called “106.7 The Fan vs. Team 980 LIVE.”

The purpose of the event was for the hosts to talk about the local sports landscape, tell stories, and interact with those in attendance. They had a special guest: Washington Commanders defensive tackle and team captain Jonathan Allen.

They discussed numerous topics, such as the Commanders’ recent changes, hiring new GM Adam Peters and head coach Dan Quinn, what to do with the No. 2 overall pick in the 2024 NFL draft and the team name.

Allen weighed in on the name — and fans will be happy.

Grant Paulsen, co-host of “Grant and Danny” weekdays from 2-6:30 p.m. on 106.7 The Fan, weighed in:

Another fan in attendance also captured the following image:

That should further endear Allen to Washington’s fans.

Another name change isn’t on new owner Josh Harris’ immediate agenda, but he and his partners understand it remains an issue. This offseason will be about rebuilding the front office, coaching staff and roster. Perhaps next year, another rebranding could be an option. As of now, Harris has more important things to worry about, such as finding a home for a new state-of-the-art stadium.

Josh Harris is busy: Commanders’ name change not a pressing concern

Josh Harris is focused on improving the Commanders on the field right now — not rebranding.

Washington Commanders majority owner Josh Harris was clear in his Monday press conference. The brand “Commanders” is not at all on his front burner.

Harris knows the Commanders will draw an interest from several capable football people. They have the No. 2 overall selection and five choices in the top 100. The new GM and new head coach will have the opportunity to get the second-best quarterback.

“I’m lucky enough to be supported by an amazing ownership group, and obviously, we think we’re an attractive destination for the next generation of leadership. This is probably amongst the most important jobs I have as a managing partner, and it’s important that I do this personally and get this right and that we bring in the right leadership.”

Harris made it clear Monday that his priority is building the leadership structure first as he is replacing Ron Rivera, and most likely, Martin Mayhew will be replaced soon as well.

“So we’re looking for the best people to build an elite franchise that’s going to consistently compete and win championships. So that’s kind of our goal in terms of the structure.

When the Harris group conducted their initial press conference in July, there were more than a few references to the success of the old “Redskins” in a previous generation. The fan base excitement instantly spread, and talk of dumping the “Commanders” brand swelled.”

In defense of the Harris group, they talked of the success of the old “Redskins;” they did not talk of changing the name back to “Redskins.”

Consequently, when asked Monday about the possibility of a new name other than “Commanders,” Harris responded, “As you can see, we’re a little busy…Working on the next improvements to our stadium, in terms of fan experience, in terms of premium areas, and fixing a lot of different things and investing in the stadium. We’re going to be rolling out a big investment program in the next few weeks, and there’s an enormous amount of detail that the business staff and some of the ownership group are working on. Then, we’ve got obviously our new home and thinking about that. Right now, our focus today is on sports first and foremost, and then these other things and so, those are our focuses right now.”

Leaders must prioritize, determining what must be done and what must not be done. Sounds like Harris has a firm foundation and discerns where his attention should be presently.

Commanders owner Josh Harris ‘disappointed’ with season, but remains confident in the future

Harris is disappointed but wants to finish the season on a strong note. He also knows the name is still an important topic.

Washington Commanders owner Josh Harris and one of his limited partners, Mark Ein, spoke publicly on Thursday at the Sports Business Journal’s Dealmakers conference Thursday in Washington, D.C.

It was the first time Harris had spoken publicly since some of Washington’s massive changes over the past month. Over the past month, the Commanders traded starting defensive ends Chase Young and Montez Sweat for a pair of second-day draft choices in the 2024 NFL draft, and last week, fired defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio and secondary coach Brent Vieselmeyer.

Harris acknowledged the disappointing start to the 2023 season, in which Washington sits at 4-8 and last place in the NFC East.

“Clearly, all of us are disappointed by the performance on the field,” Harris said via Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post. However, Harris remains optimistic about what’s ahead.

“All of us. So we’re focusing on that, and we want to finish the season strong. You got to win, and everyone wants to win. And sometimes it takes a while.”

Washington fans have been waiting long enough. However, for once, there is real change where the fans can see hope in the future. There will be a new regime in the offseason. It finally appears the Commanders will be managed like a real NFL organization, beginning with hiring a general manager, who will, in turn, hire the head coach.

Harris didn’t discuss the coaching staff but did talk about the future beyond this season.

“I have a public track record with Philly (76ers) and New Jersey (Devils), and generally, when you change a system, sometimes you have to do it,” Harris said. “But you probably take a step back before you take a step forward. That’s not always the case, but I think generally, that’s what the statistics would show. So I think it’s important to be patient.”

Fans have been upset this season that Harris hasn’t already fired Rivera. However, everyone knows changes are coming. Changes were coming regardless of what happened this season, short of a Super Bowl run.

Patience is warranted in this case. The NFL is built for teams to turn around quickly. One thing that helps teams turn around is the quarterback. Sam Howell has given Washington some exciting moments this season and there’s hope he could be the guy moving forward. Howell’s future, though, will likely be determined by the next regime.

Still, there’s hope. Fans had given up on Daniel Snyder many, many years ago. Harris and his group remain in a honeymoon period. His success, along with his group’s success, not only in sports but also in business, shows they are committed to making Washington a winner again.

Another topic for Harris on Thursday was the team’s name. While ownership ruled out a return to the former name, Harris understands it’s still an important topic for the team’s fans. And if it’s important to the fans, he will listen.

“We’re focused on winning football games for the rest of the season, fixing the stadium, and engaging with the city,” Harris said. “I know (the name) is a topic that people in Washington want to talk about. But right now, we’re focused on the things that we think are really important right now.”

Harris has maintained the same stance since purchasing the team in July. Now, with the season nearing its close, there will be more talk about another possible name change. Harris and his partners will consider another rebranding. But first, it will be about getting the right football people in place for 2024 and beyond.

Josh Harris didn’t want the ‘distraction’ of the old name hovering over this season

Josh Harris has always loved this franchise. He talks of why it was important to get the focus back on football.

The Washington Commanders kick off the 2023 NFL season against the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday. On Friday, new owner Josh Harris said he looked at this game like hosting a party for 60,000 people.

FedEx Field will be a party-like atmosphere for the home opener. The game is sold out, and several former Washington legends will attend. Ahead of Sunday’s game, Harris spoke at the Commanders season kickoff party and rallied fans, encouraging them to be loud.

One of the topics of conversation since Harris took over in July was the name. Harris was noncommital when asked, often saying it didn’t matter what he thought of the name; it was what the fans thought. Harris and some of his partners mentioned the old name when discussing their fandom as kids growing up rooting for the then-Redskins. That led to speculation that the old name could be in play again.

Harris’ partner, Magic Johnson, interviewed with the TODAY Show in July and said, “Everything is on the table” when asked about the name.

So after some speculation on social media that the team could change the name, perhaps to the old one, team president Jason Wright put an end to that. It wasn’t even a consideration, Wright said.

Last week, another of Harris’ partners, Mitchell Rales, said the “ship has sailed” regarding the old name.

In speaking to Scott Abraham of ABC 7 News in Washington, D.C., Harris himself put an end to the speculation:

“Hey look, I grew up in the glory years, and I remember the team from that era and worshipped it,” Harris said. “But the old name felt, some of our fans disrespected by it. And sports is supposed to unify people. I didn’t want the distraction. So we came out, and we, hopefully, ended that conversation and got the focus back on football, where it should be.”

Regardless of where you stand on the name debate, you aren’t right or wrong. Some fans want the name back; others who loved the name and remember the glory years just want to move forward. No one is wrong, but the focus should be on the current team.

Kudos to Harris here. Whether he likes the current name or not, Harris wants all the distractions gone. Let’s focus on the season. A name change is on the table for Washington, but it’s not happening this season, and the name will not go back to the old name.

Mitchell Rales on Commanders’ former name: ‘That ship has sailed’

A name change is on the table after the season, but not the old name.

When Josh Harris and his partners took over as owners of the Washington Commanders in July, the topic of another name change lingered. Harris and one of his partners, Magic Johnson, dropped the old Redskins name multiple times. In an appearance on the TODAY Show, Johnson told Craig Melvin that “everything is on the table” as it pertained to a name change.

Since that time, Harris has been asked about a potential name change. He often instead says his focus is on improving the fan experience, FedEx Field and the 2023 season. He never confirms or denies if his group is considering a name change.

That led to a petition from the Native American Guardians Association [NAGA] to create a petition to bring the “Redskins” name back. Everyone knew that wasn’t happening, but until team president Jason Wright said the old name was not even a consideration recently, there were no denials from the franchise.

On Wednesday, Harris and partner Mitchell Rales were interviewed at the Economic Club of Washington, D.C., and were interviewed about several topics related to the Commanders.

Of course, the name was among the topics. And Rales quickly put the debate about the old name to bed.

“We could take the easy way out and say we’re not focused on that right now,” Rales said, per Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post. “What I can tell you is we’re not focused on the previous name. That ship has sailed. We’re not going to relitigate the past. We’re about the future. We’re about building the future and not having a divisive culture that we’re engaged in. We’re going to look at everything come the end of the year and think about a lot of different things and do a lot of testing and see what people think. And we’ll learn. The beauty is we have the time to look at all of this stuff intelligently and make fan-based decisions.”

Now that’s the perfect answer. Rales hit on everything. He put the debate to bed if there was a debate left. He acknowledged that a name change was in play and that the fans would be involved.

And unlike the previous name change, fans should feel confident that Harris, Rales, Johnson and the rest of the ownership group are serious about including the community and fans as a part of any potential rebranding.

Joe Theismann believes ownership wants to change the Commanders name

Joe Theismann weighs in on another potential name change.

Washington team president Jason Wright made headlines Thursday when he went on the “BMitch and Finlay” show on 106.7 The Fan in Washington, D.C. When asked about potentially going back to the old “Redskins” moniker, Wright said that “is not being considered. Period.”

Washington’s fan base is split on the name. A portion of the fan base just dealt with non-stop drama over the name for two years until Washington rebranded as the Commanders in Feb. 2022. They are ready to focus on football, not another name change.

Another segment of fans hates the current name. Some feel like it’s an expansion team. Others don’t think it fits.

New Washington owner Josh Harris hasn’t done anything to quiet the speculation about the name. When asked about the name, he’s made it a point to say it doesn’t matter what he thinks; it’s what the fans think. As Adam Schefter told him on his podcast, the fans don’t like the name.

Harris repeated that statement multiple times. Then there was minority partner Magic Johnson saying in an interview on the TODAY Show that “everything is on the table” regarding the name.

So you can see why many believe Harris and his partners would consider another name change. Of course, as Harris has also pointed out, it’s not a priority right now, as he and his partners are focused on improvements to FedEx Field, improving the fan experience and the upcoming season.

Legendary former Washington quarterback Joe Theismann was a guest on “The Pat McAfee Show” Thursday and believes Harris and his partners will change the name.

“I think they want to move towards a new name and sort of put everything about the Washington Commanders, the Washington Football Team, in the rearview mirror and move forward,” Theismann said.

“I think Josh Harris and his group have done a terrific job of creating an environment that’s really very positive. What you hear a lot now is people talking about the football team. Over the past couple of years, there’s been more conversation about what has taken place off the field or away from the field than it has been on the field. So, to me, I think what we see is something very, very positive going on.”

Theismann goes on to praise Washington’s talent, including the defensive line, wide receivers and running backs. And Theismann has high hopes for quarterback Sam Howell.

Theismann has always had the ear of ownership. Granted, this is new ownership, but early in training camp, Theismann was on the practice field talking to Harris and one of his partners, Mitchell Rales, both of whom grew up as Washington fans.