Established
1932
City
Boston - Washington D.C.
League History
1932 - Present / National Football League
Team History
2022 - Present / Washington Commanders
2020 - 2022 / Washington Football Team
1937 - 2020 / Washington Redskins
1933 - 1936 / Boston Redskins
1932 / Boston Braves
Nickname
Commanders - Introducing the name "Washington Commanders" brings a fresh identity to the team and a new moniker. But what's the story behind it?
Washington Commanders Origin
The "Commanders" title salutes two significant landmarks in Washington, D.C.: the White House, the dwelling of the U.S. President and the nation's Commander-in-Chief, and the Pentagon, the central hub for all U.S. military branches. It also commemorates the dedicated service of our country's military personnel throughout history—those valiant individuals who risk their lives daily to safeguard global freedom.
Hence, this new name is more than just a thrilling update for NFL enthusiasts; it represents fortitude, bravery, and patriotism—principles all sports fans can rally behind!
The "Commanders" name acknowledges our nation's historical heroes and sends a clear message about the type of team they aspire to be: influential leaders eager to take the helm match after match! The upcoming season will deliver excitement, both off the field with its poignant name and on the field as the Commanders make their powerful debut!
Championship
Super Bowl 0
1992, 1988, 1983
NFL Championship 0
1942, 1937
Stadium
2025 - Present / Northwest Stadium
2000 - 2024 / FedEx Field
1997 - 1999 / Jack Kent Cooke Stadium
1969 - 1996 / RFK Stadium
1961 - 1968 / D.C. Stadium
1937 - 1960 / Griffith Stadium
*Boston*
1933 - 1936 / Fenway Park
1932 / Braves Field
Owner
2023 - Present / Josh Harris
1999 - 2023 / Daniel Snyder
1997 - 1999 / Jack Kent Cooke Foundation
1985 - 1997 / Jack Kent Cooke
1974 - 1985 / Jack Kent Cooke and Edward Bennett Williams
1969 - 1974 / Edward Bennett Williams
1932 - 1969 / George Preston Marshall
- 2011
- 2015
- 2022
- 2023
-
Ryan Kerrigan – Linebacker draft #16
In 2011: The team drafts linebacker Ryan Kerrigan with the 16th overall pick, who becomes one of the best defensive players in franchise history. He leads the team in sacks for four seasons and makes four Pro Bowls. He is traded to the Philadelphia Eagles in 2021 after 10 seasons with Washington -
Washington Commanders wins its second NFC East title under Gruden
In 2015: The team wins its second NFC East title under Gruden and makes its first playoff appearance since 2012, but loses to the Green Bay Packers 35-18 in a wild card game. Quarterback Kirk Cousins has a career year, throwing for 4,166 yards and 29 touchdowns and setting a franchise record with a completion percentage of 69.8%. He also ... -
Washington Redskins to Washington Commanders
In 2022: The team changes its name from Washington Redskins to Washington Commanders after years of controversy and pressure from Native American groups and sponsors. The team finishes the season with a 7-10 record and misses the playoffs for the second consecutive year. The team fires head coach Ron Rivera and hires Eric Bieniemy, the former offensive coordinator of the ... -
The team drafts Sam Howell
In 2023: The team drafts Sam Howell, a quarterback from North Carolina, with the second overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. Howell becomes the starter after veteran Ryan Fitzpatrick retires. The team also signs linebacker Ferrod Gardner and center Ricky Stromberg as free agents2. The team announces its 2023 preseason schedule, which includes games against the Cardinals, Bills, Bears, ...
Exploring Washington Commanders Team History: Insider Insights!
In this video, we explore the history of the Washington Commanders team in a comprehensive way. From their inception to their most memorable moments on the field, discover the untold stories and hidden facts that have shaped one of football's most iconic franchises. Join us on this fascinating journey through the annals of NFL history!
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
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Washington Commanders History
The Washington Commanders history traces back to 1932, when the team was first established as the Boston Braves. A year later, the franchise was renamed the Boston Redskins before relocating to Washington, D.C., in 1937. Since then, the Commanders have been one of the NFL’s most storied teams, representing tradition, controversy, and resilience across generations.
During the early decades, the team quickly gained success. In 1937, with rookie quarterback Sammy Baugh, Washington captured its first NFL Championship. The following years saw multiple title appearances, giving the franchise national recognition. The move to the nation’s capital cemented their presence and expanded the fan base, making them a central part of professional football history.
Ownership played a major role in shaping the franchise. George Preston Marshall initially controlled the team until 1969. Later, Jack Kent Cooke’s leadership brought a new era of growth, including the move to FedEx Field in Landover, Maryland. After Cooke’s passing, the team was sold to Daniel Snyder in 1999. Under Snyder, the franchise underwent several challenges, including criticism of the previous name and management style.
Washington Commanders Achievements
The 21st century brought change. In 2020, the team retired its old name due to controversy. It temporarily adopted the Washington Football Team identity before rebranding officially as the Washington Commanders in 2022. This marked a new chapter in the Washington Commanders history, aiming to restore pride and rebuild its image while honoring past achievements.
The Washington Commanders record includes three Super Bowl championships (1982, 1987, 1991) under head coach Joe Gibbs. During this era, Washington was known for strong defenses, clutch performances, and standout players such as John Riggins, Art Monk, and Darrell Green. These victories remain defining moments in franchise history.
Over the years, the Commanders have also secured two NFL Championships (1937 and 1942) and five conference titles. With a passionate fan base and a legacy built on perseverance, the Washington Commanders history stands as one of the richest in football. To read more about their journey, visit the Washington Commanders Wikipedia page. History of the Commanders
Retired Number
9 / Sonny Jurgensen
21 / Sean Taylor
28 / Darrell Green
33 / Sammy Baugh
49 / Bobby Mitchell
*Blue is this team’s history