Jason Wright confirms Washington Commanders will not go back to 'Redskins' team name

The Washington Commanders may very well undergo a moniker change, however, a return to the Washington Redskins is off the table.

Speaking on 106.7 The Fan in Washington, D.C., Tuesday, team President Jason Wright confirmed the franchise has no interest in going back to being the Redskins, which they retired in July 2020.

“It is not being considered,” Wright said, via The Washington Times. “Period.”

Wright’s response comes after an online petition amassed over 125,000 signatures of those in favor of seeing the Redskins moniker make a return. Washington distanced themselves from the Redskins name amid pressure from corporate sponsors such as Nike and FedEx.

“We, are passionate supporters of the Washington Redskins and its rich history,” the petition reads. “We write to you today as a collective voice, urging you to reconsider the recent name change from the Redskins to the Commanders… Believe that restoring the original name, the Redskins, is the right decision for the team, its loyal fanbase, and the legacy it represents.

“The name “Redskins” carries deep cultural, historical, and emotional significance, honoring the bravery, resilience, and warrior spirit associated with Native American culture. It was never intended as a derogatory or offensive term but as a symbol of respect and admiration. Changing the name abruptly disregards the positive legacy that the Redskins name has built over the years and disorients the passionate fans who have invested their emotions, time, and unwavering support in the team.”

Could the Commanders undergo another name change?

After playing the 2020 and ’21 seasons under the Washington Football Team moniker, the franchise announced in February 2022 they would become the Washington Commanders. The Commanders name won out over the Armada, Brigade, Red Hogs, Presidents, RedWolves and Defenders.

“As we kick off our 90th season, it is important for our organization and fans to pay tribute to our traditions, history, legacy, and the greats that came before us. We continue to honor and represent the Burgundy and Gold while forging a pathway to a new era in Washington,” former team owner Dan Snyder said in a statement. “Today may mark the first day for the Washington Commanders, but we are and always will be Washington.”

Now under the new ownership regime led by Josh Harris, the Commanders name may not be for long. For now, though, Harris’ priorities lie elsewhere.

“It’s not about how I feel, it’s about how the city feels about all this stuff,” Harris said in July, when asked in part if he liked the name, via ESPN. “We’re going to look at everything and see where we are.”