Washington Commanders head coach Dan Quinn sparked controversy by wearing a shirt that incorporated the old Redskins team name into the current logo. The shirt featured a feather on the end of the “W,” symbolizing the team’s current name. Washington changed its name from Redskins to Commanders in 2020 amid racial tensions in the U.S. The Commanders organization had no comment on Quinn’s choice of apparel, but it generated a strong reaction online, with some questioning why Quinn would wear the shirt and risk taking attention away from the positive buzz around the team.
Dallas Cowboys writer Clarence Hill Jr. expressed concern over the potential backlash Quinn’s shirt could cause, while ESPN’s Jason Reid questioned the coach’s motives in wearing it. Reid noted that anything associated with the former name tends to ignite strong reactions from people, and that it might detract from the excitement surrounding the team and their recent draft picks. Local journalist Scott Abraham, on the other hand, praised Quinn for honoring the franchise’s history while embracing its future with the shirt. The Native American Guardians Association (NAGA) also supported Quinn’s shirt, emphasizing the continued loyalty and support of Redskins fans despite the team rebranding as the Commanders.
Quinn, who was named head coach of the Commanders in the offseason, previously served as the Dallas Cowboys’ defensive coordinator. His tenure with the Atlanta Falcons from 2015 to 2020 included a Super Bowl appearance in the 2016 season, where they lost to the New England Patriots. With a head coaching record of 43-42, Quinn brings experience and leadership to the Commanders as they strive for success in the upcoming season. The controversy surrounding his choice of apparel highlights the ongoing sensitivity and reactions associated with the team’s former name and the process of transitioning to a new identity.
While some view Quinn’s shirt as a nod to the franchise’s history, others question the appropriateness of incorporating the old team name into the current branding. The debate underscores the complexities surrounding sports team rebranding and the challenges of navigating sensitive issues around race and identity. As the Commanders move forward with Quinn at the helm, the team’s success on the field will ultimately be the focus, but the controversy surrounding the shirt serves as a reminder of the ongoing discussions and debates within the sports world. Despite differing opinions on Quinn’s choice of apparel, the Commanders continue to generate excitement and anticipation for the upcoming season, with fans eagerly awaiting their performance on the field. In the midst of change and transition, the team’s commitment to honoring its past while embracing its future remains a central theme in the ongoing dialogue surrounding the Commanders’ rebranding process.
