Washington Redskins Merchandise: A Complex History in Commanders Gear

The Washington Redskins name and logo, which the NFL team stopped using in 2020, are now available in the team’s merchandise shop. Fans can find nostalgic items in the Mitchell & Ness throwback line, limited to T-shirts or jerseys featuring former Redskins players. These items are available both online and at the Northwest Stadium store.

For instance, an Art Monk T-shirt is on sale with the Hall of Famer’s likeness in his original Redskins uniform and helmet. Monk, a key player for the Redskins, was honored at the 2008 Pro Football Hall of Fame event. The shirt displays ‘Washington Redskins’ and Monk’s career records on the back, retailing for $49.99.

A similar Sean Taylor T-shirt is also offered, honoring the former safety whose career ended tragically in 2007. Taylor’s retired No. 21 jersey, featuring the Redskins name and a 75th anniversary patch, is priced at $114.99. Despite being marketed under the Commanders brand, these items prominently display the old Redskins script and logos.

This situation arises from the team’s long history as the Redskins from 1937 to 2019. Pressure from fans, Native American groups, and sponsors led to the change due to concerns about the name being offensive. The current team, the Washington Commanders, has promised not to revert to the Redskins name. Owner Josh Harris acknowledged in September 2023 that some fans felt disrespected by the former name.

Yet, the Commanders continue to sell Redskins merchandise and plan to use an alternate helmet with a spear, echoing the old feathered arrow design. The team claims these items are necessary to keep the trademark active, citing the Lanham Act, which states trademarks may be deemed abandoned after three years of nonuse unless actively maintained.

The team argues the limited availability of these Redskins items is to maintain the trademark. The decision reflects various opinions within Native American communities. While some see the name as racist, others, including figures like the late Walter ‘Blackie’ Wetzel, have publicly supported the Redskins name and logo, emphasizing pride in Native representation.