The Washington Redskins will undergo a “thorough review” of the franchise’s name. The team made the announcement in a statement Friday, shared by ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
The Redskins have had initial discussions with the NFL in recent weeks in lieu of pressure to change the name that is deemed a racial slur by many.
“This process allows the team to take into account not only the proud tradition and history of the franchise but also input from our alumni, the organization, sponsors, the National Football League and the local community it is proud to represent on and off the field,” owner Dan Snyder said in the statement.
Snyder previously vowed “NEVER” to change the team’s name. However, the social climate changed recently and the pressure to change the name has mounted.
FedEx, who owns the naming rights to the Redskins’ home stadium, asked the team to change its name. Additionally, FedEx CEO Fred Smith is a minority owner of the team.
Nike, who owns the rights to produce the NFL’s uniforms, removed merchandise and the name of the Redskins from their website.
Federal and DC officials say the Redskins won’t be approved to build a new stadium back in Washington, DC unless the team’s name is changed. Snyder has yearned to move back to the nation’s capital once the team’s lease at FedEx Field, located in Landover, Maryland, ends sometime in 2026
“This issue is of personal importance to me and I look forward to working closely with Dan Snyder to make sure we continue the mission of honoring and supporting Native Americans and our Military,” Redskins head coach Ron Rivera said.
