Since the NFL franchise in Washington changed its name from “Redskins” in 2020 to “Commanders” in 2022, fans have voiced their desire for a return to the original name. However, it’s evident that this won’t be happening. The name “Commanders” has never resonated strongly with fans, and until recently, the team’s new ownership had not made a firm commitment to retain it. This week, in a definitive interview, Josh Harris stated that the “Washington Commanders” name is here to stay, affirming that the team will not revert to “Redskins.”
“Yes. I think it’s now being embraced by our team, by our culture, by our coaching staff. We’re going with that,” Harris said, according to Pro Football Talk. Even before his remarks, former team president Jason Wright had made it clear that the “Redskins” name was completely off the table: “It is not being considered,” Wright told radio station 106.7 The Fan in 2023. “Period.”
This decision has understandably sparked outrage among fans wishing for the restoration of the previous name. Many expressed their frustration through comments. “I bet if the fans don’t show up to watch the games at the stadium that would change the owners’ tune really quick. Washington Redskins will always be the name of the team… John Riggins said he would never attend a game nor do interviews or even associate himself with the new Commanders. Redskins is iconic as the people it represents,” one fan wrote on MSN.
Another lamented, “What a missed business opportunity. Most reports indicate a drop in attendance, season ticket waiting lists, and merchandise revenue since the name change, so the one to come in with the sack to change the name back would probably see an economic explosion unlike anything the league has ever seen.” More fans voiced their discontent: “That’s extremely unfortunate to hear. Paying tribute to the amazing warriors that were here in the past should be a priority for an NFL team that resides in the United States Capitol.” Additionally, someone mentioned, “I stopped watching Washington football after a lifetime, growing up watching them because of the name change. Too bad they won’t be going back to it.”
One fan, who has supported the team for over 60 years, expressed, “I cannot accept this name change. Time to move on and leave my beloved Redskins in the dust of wokeness. Changing history to fit the narrative of a few disgusts me. Hail to the Redskins!” Another added, “Even if I am a diehard Cowboys fan, I really miss the Redskins. It’s not the same with the Commanders. Now I don’t care. It’s just another team.” These reactions illustrate the sentiment of many everyday people grappling with the news.
