ASHBURN, Va. — It has been well over two years since the Washington football franchise announced it would be known as the Commanders. Since then, reaction to the name has been mixed, to say the least. Some fans have gone so far as to start petitions to bring back the old name.
The debate continues as the team looks to start a new chapter with new ownership, new coaches and new players in the 2024 season. A poll released by the Washington Post shows most D.C. sports fans still dislike the Commanders moniker.
According to the poll, 54% of D.C.-area sports fans said they either disliked or hated the name. Among local Commanders fans, it's even worse, with 58% saying they don't like it. In fact, only 16% of those Commanders fans polled think the team should keep the name. A majority of fans said the team should change its name — again.
But team president Jason Wright says as a new season approaches, a name change is not a priority.
"We're focused on three things: Building a championship roster, having the guest experience be right, both now and in the future, and being in the community," Wright said.
The Commanders were in the community this week, holding a day of service while on a break from practice.
"As we make progress on those [priorities] and as we get to ground on those, other priorities may emerge. For now it's just not something that's gotten to that level. But it's something you pay attention to, certainly," Wright said.
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