Redskins name change reportedly coming “as soon as possible”
By Ian Cummings
The Redskins name change saga is moving far faster than anticipated, and now, reports suggest that Dan Snyder is working hastily to rebrand his franchise.
It was just over a week ago that FedEx got the ball rolling, requesting an official name change from the Washington Redskins franchise. Since then, the dominos have come crashing down. Pepsi, Nike, and other corporate sponsors rallied against Washington’s team name, and shortly after this, Dan Snyder announced his intent to conduct a thorough review of the Redskins mascot.
Back then, the Redskins name change was still only a distinct possibility, but now, it’s growing close to an all-out certainty, if it hasn’t already reached that point. According to Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk, who relayed the information from Ben Fischer of Sports Business Daily, the Redskins “intend to select a new nickname as soon as possible”. Fischer’s information reportedly came from an unnamed source close to the organization.
Florio additionally recounted that, according to Fischer, discussions with Snyder regarding a name change have been decisive, and Snyder has in fact “personally assured” one minority bidder that a name change will happen.
Proponents of keeping the Redskins name have argued that Washington should simply switch business partners, effectively making a statement to those who left due to the name. But that would potentially be far easier said than done.
According to Florio’s article, investors in the team, including minority owners Fred Smith and Dwight Schar, have been attempting to sell their shares, but there has been no outside demand. Businesses are increasingly hesitant to partner with Snyder’s franchise, and it appears as though a name change may be the only way through this rough patch.
Next. Analyzing different Washington Redskins rebranding options. dark
In the past, when faced with little business consequences, Snyder stood firm in his support of the Redskins team name, but now, he is apparently working fast, in an effort to stymy any financial losses. The motivation is there, and although logistically, a rebranding could take some time, updates may be easier to come by than originally thought. To see some potential rebranding options, check out the link above.