The franchise now known as the Washington Commanders has used several names since founding in 1932. Originally called the Boston Braves, the team became the Boston Redskins in 1933, moved to Washington in 1937, and was widely known as the Washington Redskins for decades. In 2020, following reviews of a name considered culturally insensitive, the team operated temporarily as the Washington Football Team before announcing the Commanders name in 2022. This overview outlines the key name changes and the context behind each transition.
Origins as the Boston Braves
When the franchise entered the National Football League in 1932, it was established as the Boston Braves, aligning with the city’s major league baseball team of the same name. This initial identity lasted only one season before ownership and on field needs prompted a shift in branding. The transition set the stage for subsequent changes tied to the team’s geographic and market evolution.
Transition to the Boston Redskins
Name Adoption and Early Context
In 1933, the team became the Boston Redskins, a name chosen in part to retain connections to earlier football iterations and to distinguish itself within the league. During this period, the franchise competed in Boston before planning a move that would reshape its identity and long term location strategy. The name persisted as the franchise relocated and rebuilt its fan base in a new market.
Move to Washington and the Redskins Era
Relocation and Rebranding
The franchise moved to Washington, D.C., in 1937 and became known as the Washington Redskins. For more than eight decades, this name was the primary identifier for the team in league records, media coverage, and fan discourse. Over time, the brand accumulated a historic record, including league championships and a large, dedicated following across the Mid Atlantic region.
| Name | Years Used | Location | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boston Braves | 1932 | Boston | Original franchise name in the NFL |
| Boston Redskins | 1933 | Boston | Adopted as a distinct football identity |
| Washington Redskins | 1937 to 2019 | Washington, D.C. | Longest used name in franchise history |
| Washington Football Team | 2020 to 2021 | Washington, D.C. | Temporary name during rebrand process |
| Washington Commanders | 2022 onward | Washington, D.C. | Name chosen to define a new chapter |
Rebranding Process and Rationale
Decision Drivers
In recent years, the Washington Redskins name became the subject of increased scrutiny regarding cultural sensitivity and the use of Native American imagery. The organization conducted reviews and engaged with community perspectives, which influenced the decision to retire the Redskins name. This process emphasized creating a new identity that better aligns with contemporary standards and reflects a broadened commitment to inclusivity.
The Interim Period
Beginning in 2020, the team competed on the field as the Washington Football Team, using a neutral moniker while developing a comprehensive rebrand. This interval allowed for strategic planning around logos, merchandise, and communications. It also provided time to evaluate market response and finalize a name that would represent the franchise moving forward.
The Commanders Name Launch
Announcement and Implementation
The Washington Commanders name, logo, and visual identity were introduced in 2022, marking a new era for the franchise. The word Commanders was selected to evoke leadership, strategy, and unity. Rebranding efforts included updated uniforms, digital assets, and stadium experiences, signaling a deliberate shift from previous iterations of the team.
Fan and Market Reception
Initial reactions to the new name and brand have been mixed, with some supporters embracing the change as a fresh start and others expressing nostalgia for earlier identities. Ongoing dialogue continues to shape perceptions, while the organization focuses on long term engagement, community partnerships, and performance on the field.
Legacy and Identity
Continuity Amid Change
Despite name changes, the franchise maintains a continuous history that spans nearly nine decades. Championships, iconic players, and memorable seasons remain part of the team’s legacy, regardless of the branding in use at any given time. Understanding these transitions helps contextualuate the current identity and future direction of the organization.
Looking Ahead
As the Commanders continue to evolve, stakeholders will monitor how the brand settles in the cultural landscape. Each name carries distinct associations, yet the core of the franchise—its athletes, staff, and supporters—remains central to its story. The history of naming reflects both the broader industry trends and the specific choices that define sports identity over time.