For those fans holding out hope that new owner Josh Harris would change the Washington Commanders name back to an old, familiar one, that’s not happening, according to team president Jason Wright.
During an appearance on “BMitch and Finlay,” on 106.7 The Fan in Washington, D.C., Wright was asked about a potential, specifically the former name, “Redskins.”
“It is not being considered. Period,” Wright said bluntly, per Lou DiPietro of Audacy.
A potential name change has been on the radar since Harris and his team took over on July 20. Minority owner Magic Johnson said during an interview on the TODAY Show that “everything is on the table” when asked about a name change.
When Harris was asked about the name, he didn’t mention changing the name, but he was noncommital in discussing the name, citing other areas the team was focused on, such as improving FedEx Field and the fan experience.
There was also the petition from the Native American Guardians Association (NAGA), which has over 125,000 signatures.
Finlay then asked if a rebrand was being considered at all.
“We have three big priorities for new ownership: building a championship-caliber team on the field and investing in amenities we need to do so, improving the guest experience, and re-engaging with the community,” Wright said. “Josh and the limited partners will be in the community leading up to game day, including a big kickoff party at Franklin Park on Sept. 8, so we’ll see what happens.”
Wright’s answer aligns with what Harris has said. If a rebrand is being considered, it’s not happening anytime soon.
Many fans want to see a complete rebranding. However, other fans are happy to see Daniel Snyder gone and just want to win.
Wright touted Washington’s newfound business success since Harris took over in July. He mentioned the Commanders’ new corporate partnerships, attendance at training camp and what is expected to be a sold-out FedEx Field for Week 1 in less than two weeks.
Wright’s definitive answer on the name isn’t likely to endear him to the portion of Washington’s fan base hungry for a return to the past.