Team owner Dan Snyder has resisted calls in the past to change the team’s name due to racist overtones, but the team announced Friday that it will revise the name.
“In light of recent events in our country and comments from our community, the Washington Redskins are announcing that the team will undergo a thorough review of the team name,” the team said in a statement. “This review formalizes the initial discussions the team has had with the league in recent weeks.”
So what could be the new name of the team? Here are the best candidates under discussion.
Washington Redtails
The Washington Redtails have gained momentum on social media, and a designer by the name of Pete Rogers has even simulated some models of a redesigned logo and team uniform.
“The name ‘Redtails’ celebrates the Tuskegee Airmen of the Second World War, who were the first African American military airmen in the United States Armed Forces,” wrote Rogers. “The nickname ‘Redtails’ comes from their planes, which had a distinct crimson tail.”
Head coach Ron Rivera even specifically mentioned the honor of the military during the discussion of the team’s name change.
“This problem is of personal importance to me,” said Rivera, “and I look forward to working closely with (owner) Dan Snyder to ensure that we continue the mission of honoring and supporting the Native Americans and our soldiers. “
Washington warriors
Another name that has been floated is the Washington Warriors, as it would allow the team to keep some similar items such as the arrow used in some of the team’s designs.
However, the name is causing a backlash on social networks.
“The people who tweet about the Washington Warriors with feathers and arrows on the logo have missed all that fucking point,” said Rebecca Nagle on Twitter. “Native American cultures and our tribes are real, contemporary, diverse and LIVING. We are not cartoons. And we are not mascots.”
There is also the problem of the NBA Golden State Warriors already having warriors in the name of their team.
Washington monuments
Washington monuments are another popular name suggested on social media, which makes sense since the Washington monument is located right in the National Mall in Washington DC
The obelisk was built to commemorate George Washington, the first president of the United States.
However, the betting odds are not in its favor.
Presidents +300
General +400
Lincolns +400
Americans +500
Kings +500
Memorials +500
Capitols +600
Veterans +600
Jeffersons +700
Roosevelts +700
Monuments +800
Arlingtons +1000
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