The Washington Commanders have officially changed hands as Josh Harris takes over ownership from Daniel and Tanya Snyder after their 24-year reign. The sale of the team for a whopping $6.05 billion has been embraced by fans and the league alike, marking the end of the Snyder era in the NFL and in Washington.
In a joint statement released by their PR firm, the Snyders congratulated the Harris Ownership Group on their unanimous league approval of the purchase. They expressed pride in building the most diverse leadership group in any NFL team, with a strong representation of women and underrepresented groups. Notably, the Commanders were the first team to have a full-time Black female coach in league history.
The statement continued by acknowledging the incredible support and passion of the Commanders’ faithful, who have stood by the team both on and off the field. The Snyders expressed gratitude to everyone who contributed to the organization’s success, from the players who gave their all on the gridiron to the behind-the-scenes staff who worked tirelessly to elevate every aspect of the team.
Having been the stewards of this historic organization for the past 24 years, the Snyders described it as the privilege of a lifetime. Their initial purchase of the team a quarter of a century ago was driven by their genuine fandom, a sentiment that remains as strong today as it did then. Looking ahead, the Snyders expressed their intention to spend quality time with family and focus on causes close to their hearts, including their longstanding support for breast cancer research.
Reflecting on the Snyder era, the team’s performance was a mixed bag. Over their ownership tenure, the Commanders attained a record of 164-220-2. They secured six playoff berths, underwent ten coaching changes, were subjected to four federal investigations, and faced two NFL investigations. The team also went through three name changes during this time. On a positive note, the Commanders saw the rise of two first-team All-Pros from their ranks.
Now, as the Commanders enter a new era under the ownership of Josh Harris, there is anticipation and hope for a fresh start. Harris has promised to bring a new vision and leadership to the franchise, emphasizing the team’s potential for success both on and off the field.
The transition of ownership marks a significant milestone in the Commanders’ history. The Harris Ownership Group inherits a team with a rich legacy and a passionate fan base. It is a pivotal moment for the organization, as they now have the opportunity to build upon the foundation laid by the Snyders and write a new chapter in Commanders’ history. With the support of their devoted fans and a renewed focus on excellence, the Commanders are poised to embark on an exciting journey into the future.
