The Washington NFL franchise has firmly ruled out any possibility of returning to its former “Redskins” nickname, a position reiterated by team owner Josh Harris as the team enters its second season under new ownership.

Following the departure of former owner Dan Snyder, the franchise is committed to distancing itself from the controversial term, which has long been criticized for its racially insensitive connotations.

The team officially retired the “Redskins” nickname after the 2019 NFL season, playing the next two seasons as the Washington Football Team before adopting the “Commanders” name in 2022.

Although there has been speculation about further rebranding, Harris confirmed that any future changes would not include a return to the old nickname, citing “obvious reasons” related to the term’s racist implications.

Despite the team’s decision, the name change continues to spark controversy. In September 2023, the Native American Guardians Association (NAGA) filed a federal lawsuit against the Washington Commanders, accusing the team of defamation, civil conspiracy, and civil rights violations.

The lawsuit claims that the organization and other involved parties have suppressed Native American history. Earlier that summer, NAGA had also launched a petition demanding the reinstatement of the “Redskins” name, which garnered over 150,000 signatures.

The lawsuit also targets the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI), which played a significant role in pressuring the team to change its nickname. NAGA argues that the NCAI’s actions have contributed to the cultural oppression of indigenous peoples.

The original “Redskins” logo was designed with input from Native American communities and was created by Blackfoot tribal leader Walter “Blackie” Wetzel, who served as NCAI president from 1961 to 1964.

Despite this collaboration, the term “Redskins” has been widely criticized as a racial slur, leading to the eventual decision to retire the name.

The Future of the Washington Franchise

As the Washington Commanders continue to move forward, the organization remains committed to leaving the “Redskins” era in the past.

While the team’s current name, the Commanders, may still be subject to change, Harris’s comments make it clear that a return to the previous nickname is not an option.

The franchise’s decision reflects a broader cultural shift within the NFL and society toward greater sensitivity and inclusivity.

The ongoing legal battles and public debate underscore the complex relationship between sports teams, their histories, and the communities they represent.

As the Washington Commanders look to build a new legacy, they do so with a focus on the future, distancing themselves from the controversies of the past.