The Washington Commanders, a franchise steeped in history and tradition, have captivated fans with their unique stories and remarkable achievements.
From their early beginnings in Boston to their current status in the NFL, this team has seen it all.
Did you know that the Commanders have a rich legacy that includes three Super Bowl victories and a roster of legendary players who have left an indelible mark on the game?
In this article, we’ll explore some fascinating facts about the Commanders that highlight their evolution, memorable moments, and the passionate community that supports them.
History of the Washington Commanders
The Washington Commanders, a prominent NFL franchise, were established on July 9, 1932, originally as the Boston Braves.
The team quickly changed its name to the Boston Redskins the following year and relocated to Washington, D.C., in 1937.
The Commanders have a storied history, highlighted by three Super Bowl victories (1983, 1988, and 1992) and two NFL Championships (1937 and 1942) before the Super Bowl era.
The franchise has experienced various phases of success and struggle, including a significant decline between 1946 and 1970, where they managed only four winning seasons.
The hiring of head coach Joe Gibbs in 1981 marked a turning point, leading to multiple playoff appearances and three Super Bowl wins.
Controversy surrounded the team’s name for decades due to the term “Redskins,” which many considered offensive.
In 2020, amid social justice movements, the name was retired, and the team temporarily became the Washington Football Team before rebranding as the Commanders in 2022.
Today, the Commanders continue to compete in the NFC East, playing their home games at FedExField in Landover, Maryland.
With that said let’s have a look at some interesting facts about the Washington Commanders;
1. The Washington Commanders were founded in 1932 as the Boston Braves before changing their name to the Redskins the following year.
2. They relocated to Washington, D.C., in 1937 and became the Washington Redskins.
3. The team has won two NFL championships (1937, 1942) and three Super Bowls (XVII, XXII, XXVI).
4. The Commanders were the first NFL team to have a marching band, established in 1937.
5. They also had the first radio network in the NFL, starting in 1944.
6. The Commanders were the first team to have a fully televised season in 1950.
7. The franchise has a total of 14 division titles and 25 playoff appearances.
8. Their overall postseason record is 23 wins and 18 losses.
9. The team was valued at $5.6 billion in 2022, making it the sixth most valuable NFL franchise.
10. The Commanders have played more than 1,300 games, winning over 600 of them.
11. They are known for their fight song, “Hail to the Commanders,” which was previously “Hail to the Redskins.”
12. The team’s mascot is Major Tuddy, introduced in 2022.
13. The Commanders have had notable players like Sammy Baugh, who led them to their first championship.
14. Joe Gibbs, the team’s most successful coach, led them to three Super Bowl victories.
15. Each of Gibbs’s Super Bowl-winning teams had a different starting quarterback.
16. John Riggins, a Hall of Fame running back, was a key player during the team’s Super Bowl runs.
17. The Commanders have a long-standing rivalry with the Dallas Cowboys.
18. The team has retired the jersey numbers of legends like Sonny Jurgensen and Sean Taylor.
19. The franchise has faced criticism for its previous name, leading to its retirement in 2020.
20. The team played as the Washington Football Team for two seasons before rebranding as the Commanders in 2022.
21. Washington has finished as league runner-up six times.
22. The team has a history of strong defensive players, including Darrell Green and Charles Mann.
23. The Commanders’ home games are played at FedExField in Landover, Maryland.
24. The team has had several Hall of Famers, including Art Monk and Joe Theismann.
25. The Commanders were among the first teams to adopt a cheerleading squad in the NFL.
26. They have a unique tradition of playing their fight song after every touchdown at home games.
27. The franchise has undergone various ownership changes, with Josh Harris acquiring it in 2023.
28. The Commanders have a strong fan base known for their loyalty and passion.
29. The team has had several notable coaches, including George Allen and Mike Shanahan.
30. The Commanders’ colors are burgundy, gold, white, and black.
31. The team has a history of producing successful quarterbacks, including Doug Williams, who won Super Bowl XXII.
32. The Commanders have seen periods of both dominance and struggle throughout their history.
33. They were the first NFL team to feature a female executive in a prominent role, with Tanya Snyder serving as co-CEO.
34. The Commanders have been involved in various community outreach programs over the years.
35. The team has a distinctive fan culture, with tailgating being a popular pre-game activity.
36. Washington’s 1991 season is considered one of the best in NFL history, finishing with a 14-2 record.
37. The Commanders have faced several controversies, including legal battles over their former name.
38. The team has produced numerous Pro Bowl players throughout its history.
39. The Commanders have a strong presence in the Washington metropolitan area, contributing to local culture.
40. The franchise has participated in international games, showcasing their brand globally.
41. The Commanders have a dedicated Hall of Fame to honor their greatest players and contributors.
42. The team has embraced modern technology in training and fan engagement.
43. The Commanders continue to evolve, aiming for future success while honoring their rich history.
Conclusion
The Washington Commanders are more than just a football team; they are a symbol of resilience, tradition, and evolution within the NFL.
With a history that spans over nine decades, the franchise has experienced triumphs and challenges, shaping its identity and the passionate community that supports it.
From their early days in Boston to their current status in the nation’s capital, the Commanders have left an indelible mark on the sport and its culture.
As the team moves forward under its new name and leadership, it continues to honor its rich legacy while striving for future success on the field.
