Washington Football Team reveals Commanders as new name

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Washington’s NFL team unveiled its new name on Wednesday, 18 months after retiring their previous one over mounting pressure that the name and logo – established in the 1930s – had racist connotations. 

Welcome, the Washington Commanders. 

JOE THEISMANN LIKELY REVEALED WFT’S NAME BY MISTAKE

Washington Football Team outside linebacker David Mayo (51) sets the play with defensive tackle Jonathan Allen (93) and defensive tackle Daron Payne (94) during the game against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium. (Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports)

The team released the name early Wednesday morning.

Commanders officials were set to have an official unveiling outside FedEx Field.

Speculation about the team name grew Tuesday night after a news helicopter flying over FedEx Field revealed the name Commanders on a wall inside the stadium. This followed legendary quarterback Joe Theismann’s comments over the weekend when he appeared to suggest Commanders would be the name. 

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"I think the Commanders is a name that is gonna be hopefully one people talk about moving forward," he told CBS Sports Radio. "There were so many different options. Once again, it's trademark infringement. It's getting approval from different people. If you choose a name, is there a group out there that isn't gonna like it? There's so many things you have to consider."

Washington Football Team fans hold signs in the stands against the Los Angeles Chargers in the first quarter at FedEx Field.  (Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports)

Theismann later clarified his remark, telling The Washington Times, "Like you, I’ll find out on Wednesday."

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