Which Washington Commanders news stories have been hitting the headlines as the Dan Snyder era looks to be finally and mercifully at an end?
After some initial concerns for fans earlier in the week, the news couldn't be more different right now regarding the Washington Commanders falling out of Dan Snyder's hands. Something that sparked jubilant scenes across social media and in bars around the D.C. area on a beautiful Friday evening.
There's a lot to pick apart in this complex scenario. Among the stories causing the most debate include Snyder's statement, what comes next, Josh Harris makes his intentions clear, and Magic Johnson's obvious delight.
Let's delve into each topic in more detail.
Story No. 1
Commanders sale - what comes next?
After months of speculation, the lengthy statement indicating the Washington Commanders would soon be sold to Josh Harris' group came with surprise and delight in equal measure. This is a far cry from the complications reported by The Washington Post earlier in the week, although A.J. Perez from Front Office Sports was more optimistic about something getting rubber-stamped.
It looks all over. But this won't become official until other NFL owners formally vote to approve the $6.05 billion purchase.
Considering the current timeline, a vote could occur during the next batch of owners' meetings on May 22. If not, then the league could arrange another gathering specifically to get this deal over the line once and for all.
Given how the NFL wants Dan Snyder gone, there could be a pretty quick resolution now that various statements have been made.
Dan Snyder says his Commanders goodbye
Dan Snyder has brought nothing but misery and disgrace to the Washington Commanders throughout his reign spanning more than two decades. There have been far more lawsuits than playoff wins, with FedEx Field crumbling, and the workplace culture has also come in for fierce scrutiny under his watch.
Now, it's over. The Commanders are about to embark on an exciting new era with Josh Harris and his ownership group, which has been universally welcomed by a fanbase that became completely disenchanted with the team during Snyder's stint as owner.
His constant absence when the going got tough was just one fatal flaw. And one doesn't have to look far in recent months to see that this was only going to end one way for the billionaire.
A joint statement by Dan and Tanya Snyder via the team's website indicated the deal was done. They wished Harris well and declared an intent to root for the team's success.
"We are very pleased to have reached an agreement for the sale of the Commanders franchise with Josh Harris, an area native, and his impressive group of partners. We look forward to the prompt completion of this transaction and to rooting for Josh and the team in the coming years."Dan and Tanya Snyder via Commanders.com
If the Snyders wanted the Commanders to be successful, then perhaps putting a better plan in place rather than becoming reclusive would have been a good place to start. Washington's downward spiral under inept ownership was glaring and that - above everything else - will be their lasting legacy.
Josh Harris makes Commanders intentions clear
Josh Harris' ownership group taking over the Washington Commanders represents the best-case scenario for fans. One that also comes with genuine hope for the future after languishing among the NFL's bottom feeders for so long.
Harris has assembled a heavyweight group with the influence, financial means, and experience to take this franchise forward positively. They've also enjoyed success with sports franchises, which is sure to serve them well during this pivotal transition.
In a statement via ESPN, Harris couldn't hide his excitement about the agreement with Dan Snyder. But the billionaire also made his intentions clear to get bring the Commanders back to prominence.
"On behalf of our entire ownership group … I want to express how excited we are to be considered by the NFL to be the next owners of the Washington Commanders and how committed we are to delivering a championship-caliber franchise for this city and its fanbase. We look forward to the formal approval of our ownership by the NFL in the months ahead and to having the honor to serve as responsible and accountable stewards of the Commanders franchise moving forward."Josh Harris via ESPN
Everything else should be a formality from here on out. It's been an exhausting process for Harris one suspects, but the hard work begins immediately after the sale gets formal approval from other owners.
How many changes take place right away is debatable. But Harris and his team have no doubt begun discussing the best way to make the Commanders relevant after decades in the proverbial wilderness.
Magic Johnson reveals Commanders delight
While Josh Harris, Mitchell Rales, and others provide more to the financial aspect of buying the Washington Commanders, the role Magic Johnson plays will be equally important. This is the true sports connection, the relatable figure, and the sporting icon that is revered around the globe - exactly what this ownership group needed to legitimize the project.
Johnson is an NBA Hall of Famer and one of the greatest players in history. But his business acumen and experience running successful sports teams such as the Los Angeles Dodgers adds another fascinating layer to this equation as the Commanders begin a new path.
After the joint statement was made public, Johnson immediately took to Twitter, declaring his delight around the sale. The respected figure also revealed that the vision has already been devised and will be implemented quickly.
"I could not be more excited to be a partner in the proposed new ownership group for the Washington Commanders. Josh Harris has assembled an amazing group who share a commitment to not only doing great things on the field but to making a real impact in the DMV community. I’m so excited to get to work on executing our vision for the Commanders and our loyal fanbase!"Magic Johnson via Twitter
It's been a whirlwind few hours for fans, who've been celebrating and reflecting in their own way since the news was confirmed. Although change is never easy, they can relax safe in the knowledge people like Johnson will be striving to ensure their significant investment pays off.