The team now known as the Washington Commanders was called the Washington Redskins until 2020, when it temporarily became the Washington Football Team before adopting the Commanders name in 2022. The shift reflected decisions by team leadership, the NFL, and broader social context around Native American mascots, including ongoing discussions about trademarks, fan identity, and the league’s evolution on these issues.
Background: The Washington Redskins
The Washington Redskins name was used for the franchise for most of its history, including through its moves from Boston to Washington and through many seasons in the NFL. Over time, growing criticism of the name as culturally insensitive led to calls for change from advocacy groups, sponsors, and the league.
Name Timeline and Key Details
The team’s naming history includes distinct periods, each tied to specific decisions and contexts about branding, ownership, and public response. Key moments are summarized below for clarity.
| Date or Period | Name/Status | Details and Context |
|---|---|---|
| 1932–2020 | Washington Redskins | Long-standing name that became subject of widespread criticism and calls for change. |
| 2020–2022 | Washington Football Team | Temporary placeholder name used while a new identity was developed. |
| 2022–present | Washington Commanders | Current name adopted with a new brand, uniforms, and visual identity. |
From Redskins to Washington Football Team
In 2020, under league and sponsor pressure, the team announced it would temporarily use the neutral Washington Football Team branding. This move coincided with broader NFL reviews of names and symbols, and the team cited a commitment to respect and inclusivity as reasons for the change.
Transition to the Washington Commanders
In 2022, the organization introduced the Washington Commanders as its permanent name. The announcement included updated logos, uniforms, and a narrative focused on military honor and local connection. The decision was framed as a new chapter for the franchise while maintaining continuity for fans.
What This Means for Fans and the League
The series of name changes reflects evolving expectations around representation, trademarks, and the league’s role in social conversations. Understanding this history helps clarify the team’s current identity and how it fits into the broader context of professional sports branding.
Key Takeaways
- The franchise operated as the Washington Redskins for decades before initiating change.
- A temporary period as the Washington Football Team allowed time to develop a new identity.
- The current name, Washington Commanders, was introduced in 2022 as a permanent rebrand.
- Each naming phase was influenced by cultural, commercial, and league-level factors.
- Ongoing discussions about mascots and representation continue to shape how teams approach branding.
For stakeholders, supporters, and observers, tracking these changes is part of understanding the modern sports landscape and the lasting impact of naming decisions.