As expected, Washington announced Monday that it is retiring the Redskins name and logo after a thorough review of them both.
Washington statement on retiring Redskins name and logo
ESPN’s Adam Schefter shared a copy of the statement released by the team retiring the name and logo.
This part of the statement is key:
“Dan Snyder and Coach Rivera are working closely to develop a new name and design approach that will enhance the standing of our proud, tradition rich franchise and inspire our sponsors, fans and community for the next 100 years. “
This decision comes on the heels of tremendous pressure applied by the private sector. Huge companies like Nike, Target and Walmart pulled Washington’s products from their stores amid a growing chorus of voices nationally to change the name.
Previously, Washington owner Dan Snyder had been 100% against changing the name of his franchise. Things have obviously changed since then.
After news broke Monday that Washington is retiring the name and logo, NFL fans had strong reactions. In particular, many noted that the franchise still was using the “Redskins” name and logo in its release saying that they are being retired. Also, it was not lost on fans that “sponsors” were listed ahead of everything else that the franchise hopes to inspire.