The Washington Commanders have struggled with a bit of an identity crisis ever since committing to retiring the team’s original name, the Redskins, in 2020.
The team, which was initially founded in 1932 in Boston, was named after the Boston Braves baseball team. They officially changed the name to the Redskins in 1933 to avoid confusion and reportedly “honor” the nation’s Native American heritage. Now, fans are leading the charge to change the name back and could get the backing of the most powerful man in America, President Donald Trump.
NFL Insider On Redskins Return After President Trump’s Comments
President Trump isn’t known to shy away from sharing his controversial opinions, and this is no exception. He made news recently for saying that he doesn’t think the name “has the same ring” and noting he wouldn’t have changed it.
NFL insider Mike Florio recently shared that he believes the team is “inching closer” to considering the return to the Redskins that Trump suggested. Florio noted several instances where the former name and logo were used, including a recent video unveiling their new “Super Bowl-era” uniforms.
In an article for NBC Sports, Florio noted that change might get the backing it needs from Trump. “How much of a nudge will it take from 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, if the Commanders eventually ask the Commander-in-Chief to push the D.C. Council to approve the new stadium? If, in the end, the President conditions the exercise of his influence on the team changing its name, will [Josh] Harris do it?”
Current owner Josh Harris has even used the former name in press conferences and Florio thinks that is just one of many signals that they are testing the public waters. “He may want to do it. The quid pro quo may give Harris all the cover he needs to return to the pre-existing status quo.”
“Again, this isn’t about whether the Commanders should or shouldn’t have changed their name. It isn’t about whether they should or shouldn’t change it back. It’s an effort to assess whether the foundation is being laid to do it. Based on recent events, it sure seems like it is,” Florio wrote.
President Trump tells reporters he’s willing to intervene in @Commanders stadium deal if @councilofdc fails to approve. “if I can help them out I would. Ultimately the federal government controls that” @nbcwashington pic.twitter.com/2J9Tn0aJfK
— Mark Segraves (@SegravesNBC4) July 7, 2025
Those who oppose the name cite that “redskin” was used as a deregatory slang term to describe indigenous peoples. Much like other racially insensitive terms, it is considered degrading by many.
However, Trump has claimed that many members of the Native American population considered the team’s name and logo an honor, although he didn’t specifically cite any names or groups.
When asked about it, the team has said they are committed to continuing to promote the Commanders and have no plans to revert to the original name of the team. Despite some instances where the old name or logo was used, the team is committed to moving forward with a name that is more culturally inclusive and respectful, regardless of Trump’s opinion.
