It’s time to think about a new brand in Washington

A brand developed by its talented fans

The day before the draft, many (most) fans are spent on the topic of who to take over the extended draft weekend. For those who aren’t, there’s plenty still to read on Hogs Haven. For those who are, I’m going to go in a different direction this afternoon.

Since Washington’s football team announced that it was going to re-brand several years ago, a number of fans – particularly those with graphic design backgrounds – have taken cracks at offering up their own visions. Almost without exception, the serious proposals offered were better than what the “Commanders” ended up with.

In my mind though, two particular designers, “Gonzo” and “Bryan Flynn” stood out with their design acumen, and the thoughtfulness with which they approached the exercise.

These are fans who have volunteered – at least – hundreds of hours of their free time to put together a re-branding package that would do the franchise, fans, and the DMV proud. I love the work that each of them have done, and if pressed, I couldn’t offer a favorite, but I did want to highlight part of Bryan’s work effort here, in part because he produced it as a “simple” favor from me.

Last year, I asked Bryan on “X” to pursue a Wolves/Redwolves re-design, thinking he’d mock up a few graphics and call it a day. As I’ve spent more time following him, I should have known better. This is a guy who throws himself completely into his design efforts, whether it’s re-designing state flags, college unis, or pro kits. He’s a consummate professional, and an incredibly gifted designer, as you’ll see below.

The above is just a sampling of what Bryan has created. The full, interactive, visual journey through this new branding can be found here.

We’re told the new ownership knows that fans – largely – dislike the current brand, and that they may consider an alternative. When you see the genius of individuals like Bryan and Gonzo up close, you recognize how much better things could be on that front.

I sincerely hope that Josh Harris, Mitch Rales, Magic Johnson, and the other owners will prioritize re-branding this franchise, moving on from one of the last of Dan Snyder’s mistakes, and when they do, that they’ll give both of these talented designers a call.