Commanders Owner Josh Harris: Redskins Name Is Gone for Good with New RFK Stadium Plans

Washington Commanders managing partner Josh Harris is steering the team back to its roots in the D.C. area, but don’t expect the old name to ride along for the homecoming. The Commanders have struck a deal to build a new stadium on the historic site of RFK Stadium, giving longtime fans a healthy dose of nostalgia—helped along by Super Bowl-winning quarterback Joe Theismann narrating the announcement video.

Despite the throwback vibes, Harris made it clear that the "Redskins" name isn’t making a return. When asked about it, Harris said the Commanders identity has found its place: players who embody toughness and passion are called Commanders, and even new talent like Jayden Daniels is wearing the title with pride. In a city with more military personnel than anywhere else, Harris says the Commanders name just fits—and the organization is only looking forward.

Mayor Muriel Bowser confirmed that D.C. officials and Commanders execs have reached an agreement to return to the RFK site, pending City Council approval. There’s some political wrangling in the background, with lawmakers supporting the move as long as the team and NFL honor the old Redskins logo. Senator Steve Daines highlighted that negotiations could see the logo return, possibly with revenue directed to Native American foundations supporting sports. The debate over honoring heritage versus moving on from a controversial name continues to take up as much space as an end zone dance.

Harris laid out a timeline where stadium construction could kick off in 2027, with doors opening by 2030. And while the stadium will be brand new, Harris hinted that the RFK moniker might stick around to keep the connection to the team's heritage alive.