What Happened to Washington Commanders?

The Washington Redskins, a professional American football franchise, faced decades of criticism over its name, which many considered a derogatory racial epithet for Native Americans. The team, originally founded as the Boston Braves in 1932 and renamed the Redskins in 1933 before moving to Washington D.C. in 1937, resisted calls for a name change for many years. However, the social justice movements of 2020, coupled with significant economic pressure from major sponsors like FedEx, Nike, and PepsiCo, ultimately forced the franchise's hand.

In July 2020, the team announced it would retire the 'Redskins' name and logo, temporarily adopting the 'Washington Football Team' moniker. This interim name lasted for two seasons until February 2022, when the franchise officially unveiled its new identity as the Washington Commanders, retaining its traditional burgundy and gold colors. This rebranding aimed to signify a fresh start and distance the organization from its contentious past.

A pivotal turning point occurred in July 2023 when long-time owner Dan Snyder, whose tenure was marred by numerous controversies including allegations of a toxic workplace culture and financial misconduct, sold the team. An investment group led by Josh Harris, co-founder of Apollo Global Management and owner of the Philadelphia 76ers and New Jersey Devils, purchased the Commanders for a record $6.05 billion. This new ownership group, which includes notable figures like Magic Johnson, has been credited with implementing internal reforms and fostering a more positive environment.

Under the new ownership, the team saw an immediate on-field improvement, achieving a 12-5 record in 2024 and reaching the NFC Championship Game for the first time since 1991. However, the 2025 season was described as 'injury-riddled,' resulting in a 5-12 record and a failure to make the playoffs. As of September 1, 2026, the Commanders are entering their 2026 NFL season with new offensive and defensive coordinators, David Blough and Daronte Jones, respectively, and have announced their initial 53-man roster. Several players, including starting left tackle Laremy Tunsil, are on injured reserve for the 2026 season.

Off the field, the new ownership has made significant strides regarding the team's future home. In April 2025, Harris and D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser announced plans for a $3.7 billion RFK Stadium redevelopment, with a new 70,000-seat stadium targeting a 2030 opening. The DC City Council approved the stadium plan in September 2025, and construction is expected to begin in late 2026 or spring 2027. The project, which will include housing, retail, and open space, aims to create a landmark venue. However, debates about public transit access to the new stadium continue as of September 2026. The team also faced minor backlash in August 2026 for selling throwback merchandise featuring the 'Redskins' name and logo, which the team clarified was to retain control of its former trademarks and not a sign of reverting to the old name. In March 2026, the Commanders' current ownership resolved a Snyder-era lawsuit with the DC Attorney General for $1 million, related to misleading residents about a workplace investigation.