Washington Commanders Owner Josh Harris Rules Out Return of 'Redskins' Name

Washington Commanders owner Josh Harris has definitively stated that the team's former nickname, "Redskins," will not be making a comeback. Harris emphasized the need for unity and progress, rather than divisiveness.

Washington Commanders owner Josh Harris has put an end to any speculation about the team potentially reverting to its former nickname, the Redskins. In a recent interview, Harris unequivocally stated that the controversial name would not be revived.

"For obvious reasons, the old name can't come back," Harris told reporters. "We're focused on unifying the team and the city around our football team."

Washington Commanders Owner Josh Harris Rules Out Return of 'Redskins' Name

Harris acknowledged the team's history and the emotional attachment some fans may have to the "Redskins" moniker. However, he stressed that the organization's current priorities lie elsewhere.

"Right now, we're trying to find a new home and win football games," Harris said. "We need to put our energy into things that will bring people together, not divide them."

Washington Commanders Owner Josh Harris Rules Out Return of 'Redskins' Name

Harris confirmed that the team is conducting research and considering ways to honor its past while embracing a new identity. However, he emphasized that the nickname change is not an immediate priority.

"We're not forgetting about it," Harris said. "But we're prioritizing things that are more important right now."

Washington Commanders Owner Josh Harris Rules Out Return of 'Redskins' Name

The Commanders' announcement that they would be retiring the "Redskins" name came in 2022, after years of pressure from Native American groups and fans who considered the term offensive.

The team adopted the temporary name "Washington Football Team" before settling on "Commanders" in February 2022. However, the name change has faced legal challenges from the Native American Guardians Association (NAGA).

NAGA has argued that the "Commanders" nickname glorifies warfare and perpetuates negative stereotypes about Native Americans. The lawsuit remains ongoing.

Despite the legal challenges, Harris expressed optimism that the Commanders' new name would eventually be embraced by fans. He also highlighted the importance of the team's commitment to diversity and inclusion.

"We want to create a welcoming environment for everyone," Harris said. "Our goal is to build a football team that the entire community can be proud of."

As the Commanders prepare for the upcoming season, Harris vowed to continue listening to the concerns of fans and stakeholders. He emphasized that the team would remain open to feedback and would make changes as necessary.

"We're not perfect," Harris said. "But we're committed to learning and growing. We want to build a team that represents the best of the Washington community."

The Commanders' decision to move away from the "Redskins" name has been a significant step in the NFL's efforts to address racial insensitivity and promote inclusivity. While the new name has faced some criticism, Harris remains confident that the team can unite fans and create a positive legacy under the "Commanders" banner.