When you hear the word “Redskins” what comes to mind? Dysfunction, failure, loss, are all typical thoughts amongst fans and the league. The shortcomings of the nation’s capital’s football team are talked about at nauseam and rightfully so. If the front office does not acknowledge a problem, then why not talk until it is addressed? However, what if the franchise were to make changes to reinvigorate the fanbase? What would be said changes be? There are a few changes that come to mind. Washington Redskins who?
Change the Name
The name Redskins has drawn a lot of controversy over the years. The name also has been rooted in decades of tradition as have most of the changes that will be proposed. However, as pointed out earlier, the name has become synonymous with failure. With names like Washington Nationals, Capitals, Mystics, Wizards and even the new XFL team, the DC Defenders, the name Redskins lacks the pizzazz or cleverness of the others. How about the Washington Warriors? Strong, powerful, and clever when you consider the other football team is called the Defenders.
Color Scheme
Nationals, Capitals, Wizards, Mystics, and Defenders all have a common color theme; a combination of red, white, and blue. Why not, this is the nation’s capital after all. Aside from traditions of old, burgundy and gold has no real part any more. Why hang on to it anymore. How about a nice deep red jersey, with blue sides under the arms, with white lettering and blue trim. Salvation level: 100
Logo Change
Due to the last 20+ years of the Redskins being mediocre at best, a lot of the fanbase is comprised of older fans. So, with changing the logo, let’s keep some tradition but play to the new name Warriors. The Washington Warriors new logo wouldn’t be new exactly. Older fans remember the arrow alternate logo used from 1965 to 1969. The arrow would make a return and would match the name perfectly. That’s pretty intimidating, a strong name, and a lovely symbol boasting an attack that’s long-range and hard to defend (I’m sure Terry McLaurin would love that idea).
New Fight Song
Hail to the Redskins was unique for its time. There’s not much to hail anymore. It would take a minute to come up with original lyrics, so, how about a rendition of Queen’s “We Are the Champions” however, instead of “champions” substitute it with Warriors. That song is iconic to any form of competition and if you read the lyrics, it can certainly bring hope and reenergize a fanbase. We are the Warriors, my friends and we’ll keep on fighting ’til the end are the WarriorsWe are the WarriorsNo time for losers ’cause we are the Warriors of football! Can I get a Hail Yeah!?
An Actual Mascot
This is not hyperbole or even sarcasm, but do the Redskins even have a mascot? With the name controversy being how it is, it is tough to say. With the new name, why not have a mascot to join Screech, Slapshot, and G-Wiz? Again, keeping a bit of “tradition”, name him Dee (shout out to Chief Zee of the ’70s). Dee the Warrior, or simply D.Warrior. Blue, cartoon man, in a red jersey who Carrie’s around a bow (but let’s avoid controversy and NOT him a native American). The changes are a little far fetched. However, thinking about them is almost necessary at this point. #FireBruceAllen is getting played out, hoping for Snyder to step down is a fool’s game, and a new stadium is so far off, it’s not even funny.
Rather than selling this idea of being a player away, why not give fans something to truly be excited about? New name, colors, and logo will show a commitment to change and give fans a reason to be invested. The players will also be hyped to play with a hyped crowd once again. Just an idea to consider. Washington Redskins who?
Be sure to comment on any additional changes that could be made to the Washington franchise!
