One of the worst kept secrets in the NFL is now official, the Washington Football Team will be henceforth known as the “Commanders”. Alongside the announcement Wednesday morning, the team also debuted the franchise’s new uniforms at an introductory press conference.
Many within the Washington franchise wanted to incorporate some sort of nod to the military given the team’s presence in the nation’s capital. While some believed this would lead to them choosing the “Red Tails”, in an homage to America’s first black fighter pilot squadron in WW2, the team ultimately went in another direction.
“As an organization, we are excited to rally and rise together as one under our new identity while paying homage to our local roots and what it means to represent the nation’s capital,” said co-owner and co-CEO Dan Snyder. “As we kick-off our 90th season, it is important for our organization and fans to pay tribute to our past traditions, history, legacy and the greats that came before us. We continue to honor and represent the Burgundy & Gold while forging a pathway to a new era in Washington. Today may mark the first day for the Washington Commanders, but we are and always will be Washington.”
“Through more than 40,000 fan submissions and countless surveys, focus groups and meetings, this 18-month rebrand process has been a collaborative effort with our fans, alumni, players and local DMV community, all leading to today as we embark on a new chapter in our legacy as the Washington Commanders,” said co-owner and co-CEO Tanya Snyder. “Going into our 90th year, we are excited to celebrate the rich history of the Burgundy & Gold while also paving the way for new traditions as the Washington Commanders.”
The quest to find a new namesake began in July of 2020 where, after several weeks of national unrest, Snyder and Co. finally came to the conclusion that their Native American imagery was outdated. Thus began a 2 year search where the team poured over fan submissions, a variety of colour schemes and variations of their logo.
Between the summer of 2020 and February 2nd 2022, the team was simply known as “The Washington Football Team”, a name that was initially mocked, before beginning to grow on people. When it came time to select a more permanent identity, the WFT was briefly considered before management opted for a fresh start altogether.
Amongst the other finalists that were under consideration were the Armada, Presidents, Brigade, RedHogs, RedWolves, and the Defenders.
As of 9am ET, fans could officially begin purchasing new “Commanders” gear from the team store.