Commanders News: Sam Howell, Brian Robinson Jr., Ron Rivera and rebrand drama
By Dean Jones
Which Washington Commanders news stories are hitting the headlines as the team continues to reflect on their disappointing loss against the Buffalo Bills?
There has been a lot of wound-licking within the Washington Commanders after their humbling loss against the Buffalo Bills. But the most important thing for the coaches and players is to learn some harsh lessons and move forward heading into this weekend's crucial NFC East divisional battle at the Philadelphia Eagles.
Until then, the stories generating debate include Sam Howell's performance, Ron Rivera's defensive struggles, Washington's rebrand coming under the microscope, and calls to utilize Brian Robinson Jr. more frequently within Eric Bieniemy's scheme.
Let's delve into each topic in more detail.
Native American group sues Commanders
When Mitchell Rales and Josh Harris - two prominent members of the new Washington Commanders ownership group - stated in no uncertain terms that the previous name wouldn't be considered for any potential rebrand, that was seen to be the end of the matter. Apparently, that's no longer the case.
The Native American Guardians Association (NAGA) is reportedly seeking $1.6 million in damages from the Commanders for allegedly "defaming the organization" by switching the franchise name. Harris, Matthew Laux, and the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) are named in the lawsuit.
According to Sportskeeda, one of the primary claims within the lawsuit centers on the previous logo. This honored a highly respected historical figure Chief White Calf, who also featured on the Buffalo Nickel.
"The logo on the Redskins helmet is an actual person, it’s Chief White Calf. Every time they go out on that field, they were honoring Chief White Calf and they were battling on the football field with the same honor and integrity and courage. They should continue to honor that."
- NAGA lawsuit via Sportskeeda
What comes from this remains to be seen. But it's unlikely to alter Harris' ownership group's decision to keep the Redskins name firmly in the history vault.