The potential sale of Washington’s NFL franchise has reached a critical point. According to multiple reports, current Washington Commanders owner Daniel Snyder is not allowing Jeff Bezos to bid on the franchise. Of course, that could just be a ploy by Snyder to squeeze as much as he can out of Bezos, who can far outbid any other known interested parties—and thus could potentially get the franchise for less than Snyder would like unless any supposed animosity leads to a higher acquisition price. There’s also some thought that Snyder will just keep the team or sell a minority stake.
If there is a new owner of the NFL franchise in Washington, I believe that they should take advantage of the opportunity and change the team name again. Nearly half of fans do not like the new Commanders name, preferring the Washington Football Team according to a Washington Post poll from last year. Personally, I don’t think Commanders is a terrible name, but I think they could have done much better.
To me, the perfect team name for Washington’s NFL franchise is the Washington Wolves. Before “Commanders” was unveiled last year, Washington team president Jason Wright revealed that the new name would not be Wolves or any variation because of potential legal hurdles. The NBA has a team called the Timberwolves, and Arkansas State’s teams go by the Red Wolves, a potential variation Washington was considering. But there are plenty of teams that share team names around sports. It’s almost like because Wolves is an underused name for sports teams (there aren’t many out there), it is more challenging legally.
I think when you are an NFL organization, you find a way to get it done. And worst case, if it takes time to make the switch because of legal hurdles such as a judge temporarily stopping you from using Wolves, “Football Team” could have remained a fine temporary name. The new team owner might have the resources to be more willing to push for whatever name they want.
Washington Wolves is alliterative. It’s easy to remember. It’s a fit for a football team name. Overall, Washington Wolves just feels like a premium name.
In addition to its alliterative and memorable qualities, the name “Washington Wolves” also has a significant nod to the region’s history and culture. Wolves have long been an important symbol in Native American cultures, which can be a thread to the former Redskins name while still allowing the team to simultaneously move forward with a clean slate and a fresh identity.
The wolf is a powerful and respected animal, including in many indigenous cultures, representing traits such as loyalty, strength, and intelligence. Incorporating the wolf into the team name would not only honor the heritage of the area but also provide an opportunity to bring awareness to a species that—while not in danger of extinction at this time—has conservation efforts going on in the United States.
With their strength, speed, and teamwork in packs, Wolves are a natural fit for a football team name. They are a respected animal, meant to inspire fear and respect in opponents—while creating a strong sense of unity and pride among players and fans.
Furthermore, the potential for incorporating wolf-themed elements into the stadium and fan experience is very exciting. From howling sound effects during games to wolf-themed merchandise, the Washington Wolves could create a unique and immersive fan experience that would only add to the excitement of game day. I’m thinking young kids would love a stuffed animal Washington Wolfie.
Wolves are also a popular choice for sports team names in other countries, including the Wolverhampton Wanderers in the English Premier League.
Overall, the name “Washington Wolves” checks all the boxes for a great team name: it’s memorable, alliterative, and culturally significant. Something is needed to get the franchise out of its funk, and the Wolves name can be a way to do that, creating a wolfpack mentality that keeps fans rallied behind the organization through all the ups and downs. If the team’s new owner is open to considering a change, they should seriously consider this option as a way to create a strong, lasting identity for the franchise.