The Washington Commanders are evaluating a change to their primary helmet design that would re‑introduce the iconic spear logo the franchise used in the 1960s. The proposed emblem would appear as a spear piercing the team’s “W” and would be added to the helmets for the 2027 season, pending NFL approval.
Background and recent developments
Uniform and design specialist Zach Cohen first reported the potential change, and an NFL source confirmed the discussion is ongoing. The idea resurfaced after the club debuted the spear as part of its 2026 alternate uniform, a nod to the team’s historical look.
Owner Josh Harris, who purchased the franchise in July 2023 for a record $6.05 billion, displayed the spear on a cap during a fan rally in London on Saturday, just before the Commanders faced the Indianapolis Colts. “I like the spear,” Harris told reporters. “It brings everything together a little bit. It brings obviously the special forces, and Native Americans and Roman gladiators. I like the spear. And, obviously, we had it on our helmet way back.”
Legal and branding considerations
The NFL source noted that the decision is not final. The league’s branding rules, trademark issues, and financial implications all require careful review, and the Commanders will consult with legal counsel before moving forward.
Under NFL policy, a team may change its primary uniform and logo within the first five years of new ownership. Harris’s acquisition in 2023 falls within that window, giving the Commanders the procedural ability to make the alteration.
Historical context
From 1965 to 1969, the team—then known as the Washington Redskins—wore burgundy helmets featuring a spear and feather on each side. The new design is expected to omit the feather, focusing solely on the spear to avoid any implication of cultural insensitivity.
The franchise previously used a native‑inspired spear uniform as an alternate kit in 2002‑2003, a look that was popular with many longtime fans. While the “Redskins” name was retired in 2020 after pressure from advocacy groups, the spear remains a recognizable element of the team’s visual history.
Owner’s perspective
Harris emphasized that the Commanders are not planning to revert to the former nickname. “Everyone is enjoying what we’re doing, which is embracing the past as much as we can in a respectful way,” he said in London. “We’re going to keep looking at how we keep doing that.”
Fans who cherish the team’s heritage have expressed support for the spear addition, seeing it as a bridge between the franchise’s storied past and its present identity as the Commanders.
What’s next?
The league’s branding office will review the proposal, and the Commanders expect to announce a final decision before the start of the 2027 season. If approved, the spear‑pierced helmet would become the primary look for the team, marking the most significant uniform change since the rebranding effort that removed the former nickname.
For now, the Commanders remain focused on on‑field performance while the uniform discussion continues behind the scenes.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
