Washington Commanders Team Profile: History, Stadium, Coaches and More

The Washington Commanders are an NFL team based in Washington, D.C. The team plays in the National Football League and competes in the NFC East. Their home games are played at Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland.

The Washington Commanders have a long history in the NFL and have won three Super Bowl championships. The team has also produced many notable players and memorable moments over the years. Today, Washington continues to build its roster and compete for success in the NFL.

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Washington Commanders History

The Washington Commanders have one of the longest histories in the NFL. The franchise began in 1932 in Boston and later moved to Washington, D.C. Over the years, the team has changed its name several times, played in different stadiums and built a history that includes five world championships.

1932 – The Franchise Begins in Boston

The franchise was founded on July 9, 1932, in Boston. The original team was called the Boston Braves and played its home games at Braves Field.

The team entered the NFL during a period when professional football was still developing. This first season became the starting point for what would eventually become the Washington Commanders.

1933 – The Team Becomes the Boston Redskins

In 1933, the franchise moved to Fenway Park, the home of the Boston Red Sox. At the same time, the team changed its name from the Boston Braves to the Boston Redskins.

This period was important because the franchise was beginning to establish a stronger identity in professional football.

1936 – First NFL Championship Game Appearance

The Boston team reached the NFL Championship Game in 1936. It was the franchise’s first appearance in the league championship game.

Although Boston did not win the championship that year, the appearance showed that the young franchise could compete at the highest level of the NFL.

1937 – Move to Washington and First Championship

A major change came in 1937. The franchise moved from Boston to Washington, D.C., and officially became the Washington Redskins.

The move immediately produced one of the biggest moments in franchise history. Washington won the NFL World Championship in 1937, giving the organization its first league championship.

The team’s first Washington-era home games were played at Griffith Stadium. Quarterback Sammy Baugh became one of the most important players of this early period and later became a Pro Football Hall of Famer.

1940 – A Historic Championship Game

Washington returned to the NFL Championship Game in 1940. The team faced the Chicago Bears in a game that became one of the most famous championship games in early NFL history.

The Bears won the game, but Washington remained one of the league’s stronger teams during this era.

1942 – Second World Championship

Washington returned to the championship stage in 1942 and defeated the Chicago Bears to win its second NFL World Championship.

The 1937 and 1942 titles became the first two major championships in franchise history before the Super Bowl era. The organization would later add three Super Bowl championships.

1943–1945 – Continued Success

The team remained competitive during the early and middle 1940s. Washington made additional NFL Championship Game appearances and continued to build a strong football tradition.

This early period helped establish the franchise as one of the notable teams in the NFL.

1946–1960 – A Long Difficult Period

After the strong years of the 1930s and early 1940s, Washington entered a much harder period.

From 1946 through 1970, the franchise had only four winning seasons and did not reach the playoffs during that stretch. The team struggled to maintain the same level of success it had achieved during its early championship years.

The difficult period included the 1961 season, when Washington finished 1–12–1, one of the worst regular-season records in franchise history.

1961 – Move to D.C.’s New Home

In 1961, Washington moved from Griffith Stadium to the newly built District of Columbia Stadium, later known as RFK Stadium.

RFK Stadium became the team’s home for 35 seasons and was an important part of Washington football history. The franchise later returned to Washington, D.C. for its planned future stadium project.

1971–1977 – The George Allen Era

The arrival of head coach George Allen helped change the direction of the franchise.

Allen became Washington’s head coach in 1971 and helped the team return to the playoffs. His teams were known for their experienced players and strong defense.

Washington reached the postseason several times during the 1970s, giving fans a reason to believe that another successful era was possible.

1978–1980 – Building a Championship Team

Washington hired Bobby Beathard as general manager in 1978. The organization began building the foundation for what would become one of the most successful periods in franchise history.

The team added important players and developed a strong offensive line. Players such as Art Monk and other future stars became major parts of the organization.

1981 – Joe Gibbs Arrives

In 1981, Washington hired Joe Gibbs as head coach.

Gibbs quickly helped transform the franchise. His first Washington team became the foundation for a championship run that would define the 1980s and early 1990s.

Washington’s strong offensive line, running game, defense and special teams became important parts of the team’s identity.

1982 – First Super Bowl Championship

The 1982 season became one of the most important seasons in Washington football history.

Washington reached Super Bowl XVII and defeated the Miami Dolphins 27–17 to win its first Super Bowl championship.

This was the franchise’s third world championship and its first Super Bowl title.

1983 – Another Super Bowl Appearance

Washington returned to the Super Bowl after the 1983 season.

The team faced the Los Angeles Raiders in Super Bowl XVIII but lost the game. Even with the defeat, Washington had established itself as one of the NFL’s top teams.

1987 – Second Super Bowl Championship

Washington won another Super Bowl after the 1987 season.

The team defeated the Denver Broncos 42–10 in Super Bowl XXII. The victory gave Washington its second Super Bowl championship.

The 1987 team also became known for its strong offensive performance in the Super Bowl.

1988–1990 – Staying Competitive

Washington remained competitive after its 1987 championship.

The team continued to feature players such as Darrell Green, Art Monk, Gary Clark, Charles Mann and Russ Grimm, while Joe Gibbs remained at the center of the organization.

Washington continued to compete for playoff places and remained one of the better-known franchises in the NFL.

1991 – Third Super Bowl Championship

The 1991 season became another historic chapter.

Washington finished the regular season with a strong record and advanced through the playoffs to Super Bowl XXVI.

The team defeated the Buffalo Bills 37–24 and won its third Super Bowl championship.

The 1991 championship was the franchise’s fifth world championship overall, following the NFL titles in 1937 and 1942 and the Super Bowl wins in 1982, 1987 and 1991.

1992 – Final Joe Gibbs Super Bowl Era

Washington reached the playoffs again in 1992. It was another successful season for the organization, although the team did not return to the Super Bowl.

Joe Gibbs left his first tenure as Washington’s head coach after the 1992 season.

The early 1990s marked the end of one of the strongest eras in franchise history.

1993–1999 – Changes After the Championship Era

The years after the 1991 championship brought several changes.

Washington went through different coaches, players and organizational approaches while trying to return to its previous level of success.

In 1997, the franchise moved into its new home, which is now known as Northwest Stadium. The move ended the team’s 35-year run at RFK Stadium.

2000–2007 – A Series of Changes

Washington entered the new century looking for another long-term championship run.

The team went through several coaching and roster changes. Joe Gibbs returned for a second coaching stint from 2004 through 2007 and helped Washington reach the playoffs during that period.

However, the franchise did not reach another Super Bowl during the 2000s.

2008–2011 – Another Difficult Stretch

Washington struggled to find consistent success during the late 2000s and early 2010s.

The organization continued to make changes at quarterback, coaching and other key positions while searching for a stable direction.

2012 – A Return to the Playoffs

The 2012 season became an important turning point.

Washington won the NFC East and returned to the playoffs. The team was led by quarterback Robert Griffin III, who won the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award.

Washington lost in the Wild Card round, but the division title gave the franchise its first NFC East championship in several years.

2013–2019 – More Ups and Downs

The team struggled to build on the 2012 success.

Washington experienced several coaching and roster changes during the following seasons. The franchise had some competitive years but did not establish another long period of playoff success.

2020 – Washington Football Team

In 2020, the franchise temporarily retired its previous name and played as the Washington Football Team.

Despite finishing the regular season with a 7–9 record, Washington won the NFC East and reached the playoffs.

The 2020 season became an important transition year because the organization was moving toward a new permanent identity.

2021 – Final Season as Washington Football Team

Washington continued to use the Washington Football Team name during the 2021 season.

The organization spent this period developing a new identity and preparing for a permanent team name.

2022 – Washington Commanders Begin

On February 2, 2022, the franchise officially became the Washington Commanders.

The new name created a new identity while keeping the franchise’s history dating back to 1932. The team’s new branding also continued to use burgundy and gold as its primary colors.

The Washington Commanders celebrated the franchise’s 90th anniversary in 2022, marking 90 years since the organization was founded in Boston in 1932.

2023 – A Difficult Season

The 2023 season was a difficult one for Washington.

The Washington Commanders finished the regular season 4–13 and went through another major organizational change after the season.

The franchise moved into a new phase under owner Josh Harris and a new football leadership structure.

2024 – A Major Turnaround

The 2024 season became one of the most important recent chapters in Washington’s history.

With Jayden Daniels at quarterback and Dan Quinn as head coach, Washington finished the regular season 12–5.

The Washington Commanders then won a playoff game for the first time since 2005. The team continued its playoff run and reached the NFC Championship Game, its first appearance at that stage since the 1991 season.

The 2024 season gave the franchise a major step forward after several difficult years.

2025 – A Step Back

Washington could not maintain the same regular-season record in 2025.

The Washington Commanders finished the season 5–12, placing third in the NFC East. The team ended the season with a 24–17 win over the Philadelphia Eagles.

The 2025 season was therefore a clear change from the 12–5 record of 2024. The organization entered 2026 focused on improving the roster and building again around its young core.

2026 – A New Chapter

The Washington Commanders entered the 2026 season with another new chapter underway.

Jayden Daniels returned for his third season, while the team introduced a new offensive scheme under offensive coordinator David Blough. The Commanders also announced their 53-man roster for the 2026 season.

The 2026 season also brought a new uniform collection inspired by important periods in franchise history. The team reintroduced designs connected to its Super Bowl era while adding a new alternate look.

Washington began the 2026 regular season with a 1–2 record through Week 3. The team opened with losses to Philadelphia and Dallas before beating Seattle 33–31 in Week 3. The next scheduled game was against the Indianapolis Colts in London in Week 4.

1932–2026: A Franchise Built Through Many Eras

From the Boston Braves in 1932 to the Washington Commanders in 2026, the franchise has gone through major changes in name, location, leadership and on-field performance.

Its history includes five world championships, three Super Bowl victories, legendary players and coaches, long periods of struggle, and major rebuilding periods.

The Washington Commanders now carry more than nine decades of NFL history into the 2026 season, while continuing to build a new era around a younger roster and a new generation of players.

Washington Commanders — Honours & Trophies

Washington Commanders have won five world championships in franchise history. The team won its first two NFL championships in 1937 and 1942 before adding three Super Bowl titles in 1982, 1987 and 1991.

Championship Years

The 1937 championship was Washington’s first league title after the franchise moved from Boston to Washington, D.C. The team defeated the Chicago Bears 28–21 in the NFL Championship Game.

In 1942, Washington won its second NFL championship by defeating the Chicago Bears 14–6.

The franchise later won three Super Bowls. Washington defeated the Miami Dolphins in Super Bowl XVII in 1982, the Denver Broncos in Super Bowl XXII in 1987, and the Buffalo Bills in Super Bowl XXVI in 1991.

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Washington Commanders Key Players & Club Legends

The Washington Commanders have had many important players and coaches since the franchise began in 1932. Some helped the team win championships, while others became major figures in Washington football history. Several of these names are also members of the Pro Football Hall of Fame or the Washington Commanders Ring of Fame.

Sammy Baugh

Position: Quarterback
Washington Career: 1937–1952
Hall of Fame: 1963

Sammy Baugh is one of the most important players in Washington football history. Known as “Slingin’ Sammy,” he joined Washington in 1937 and helped the team win an NFL championship in his first season with the franchise. He also helped Washington win another championship in 1942.

Baugh was not only a quarterback. He also played defensive back and handled punting duties. During his Washington career, he became one of the most productive passers of his era and finished with 187 touchdown passes for the franchise.

Joe Gibbs

Position: Head Coach
Washington Career: 1981–1992, 2004–2007
Hall of Fame: 1996

Joe Gibbs is one of the biggest names in Washington’s coaching history.

During his first run with the team, Gibbs led Washington to three Super Bowl championships. Those titles came in 1982, 1987 and 1991, with three different starting quarterbacks.

Gibbs returned to Washington for a second coaching stint from 2004 through 2007. His first tenure remains closely connected with the franchise’s most successful championship era.

Darrell Green

Position: Cornerback
Washington Career: 1983–2002
Hall of Fame: 2008

Darrell Green spent his entire 20-year NFL career with Washington. He became known for his speed, coverage ability and long career and earned the nickname “The Ageless Wonder.”

Green played in 295 games for Washington and recorded 54 interceptions, which remains the franchise career record. He also helped the team win two Super Bowl championships and was selected to seven Pro Bowls.

Art Monk

Position: Wide Receiver
Washington Career: 1980–1993
Hall of Fame: 2008

Art Monk was one of the key receivers during Washington’s championship era.

He played a major role in four Super Bowl appearances with Washington and was part of three championship teams. Monk finished his Washington career with 888 receptions and 12,026 receiving yards, both major franchise receiving marks.

Monk was also known for his work in the Washington, D.C., community after his playing career.

John Riggins

Position: Running Back
Washington Career: 1976–1979, 1981–1985
Hall of Fame: 1992

John Riggins was a major part of Washington’s successful teams in the 1980s.

His most memorable moment came in Super Bowl XVII, when he helped Washington defeat the Miami Dolphins and win its first Super Bowl championship.

Riggins became one of the most recognizable running backs in franchise history and is also a member of the Washington Commanders Ring of Fame.

Joe Theismann

Position: Quarterback
Washington Career: 1974–1985

Joe Theismann was the starting quarterback during one of the most important periods in Washington history.

He led the team to its first Super Bowl championship after the 1982 season. Theismann was also selected to the Pro Bowl and became a major figure in the franchise’s rise during the early 1980s. He is a member of the Washington Ring of Fame.

Doug Williams

Position: Quarterback
Washington Career: 1986–1989

Doug Williams played an important role in Washington’s second Super Bowl championship.

He became the starting quarterback during the 1987 season and led Washington to a 42–10 victory over the Denver Broncos in Super Bowl XXII.

Williams’ performance in that game became one of the most memorable quarterback performances in Washington’s championship history. He is also a member of the Washington Commanders Ring of Fame.

Mark Rypien

Position: Quarterback
Washington Career: 1987–1993

Mark Rypien was the quarterback who led Washington to its third Super Bowl championship.

He was named Super Bowl XXVI MVP after Washington defeated the Buffalo Bills following the 1991 season. Rypien also earned Pro Bowl selections during his Washington career and remains an important name from the team’s 1991 championship season.

Charley Taylor

Position: Wide Receiver
Washington Career: 1964–1977
Hall of Fame: 1984

Charley Taylor spent his entire professional playing career with Washington.

He finished with 649 receptions, 9,110 receiving yards and 79 receiving touchdowns. Taylor was selected to six Pro Bowls and became one of the most productive receivers in franchise history.

He is also a member of the Washington Commanders Ring of Fame.

Sonny Jurgensen

Position: Quarterback
Washington Career: 1964–1974
Hall of Fame: 1983

Sonny Jurgensen was one of Washington’s most respected quarterbacks during the 1960s and early 1970s.

He became known for his passing ability and was selected to multiple Pro Bowls during his career. Jurgensen is a Pro Football Hall of Famer and a member of the Washington Ring of Fame.

Charles Mann

Position: Defensive End
Washington Career: 1983–1993

Charles Mann was one of the important defensive players during Washington’s successful 1980s and early 1990s period.

He helped Washington reach three Super Bowls and win two of them. Mann finished his Washington career with 82 sacks, placing him among the franchise’s leading pass rushers.

Dexter Manley

Position: Defensive End
Washington Career: 1981–1989

Dexter Manley was another major part of Washington’s championship defenses.

He finished his Washington career with 97.5 sacks, which is the franchise career record listed by the Washington Commanders. Manley also earned a Pro Bowl selection in 1986 after recording 18.5 sacks that season.

Bobby Beathard

Role: General Manager
Washington Career: 1978–1988
Hall of Fame: 2018

Bobby Beathard was not a player, but his role was extremely important in building Washington’s championship teams.

As general manager, Beathard helped put together the roster that became the foundation of Washington’s successful 1980s teams. He is a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame and the Washington Commanders Ring of Fame.

A Legacy That Covers Many Generations

The Washington Commanders’ history includes stars from different generations, from Sammy Baugh in the early years to Darrell Green, Art Monk, John Riggins, Joe Gibbs and the other championship-era figures.

These players, coaches and football executives helped shape Washington’s identity and remain important parts of the franchise’s history. The Washington Commanders’ Ring of Fame currently recognizes dozens of people connected with the organization’s long history.

Washington Commanders 2026 Season

The Washington Commanders entered the 2026 NFL season looking to build on the progress made in 2024 while coming back from a 5–12 record in 2025. The team entered the new season with Jayden Daniels at quarterback, Dan Quinn as head coach and a new offensive system led by offensive coordinator David Blough.

2026 Team Setup

The Washington Commanders announced their initial 53-man roster on August 31, 2026. Jayden Daniels returned for his third NFL season, with Marcus Mariota and Athan Kaliakmanis also on the quarterback group. The new offensive system under David Blough is one of the main changes for Washington this season.

The team continues to play its home games at Northwest Stadium. Washington is led by head coach Dan Quinn, while Josh Harris remains the team’s managing partner.

2026 Preseason Results

Washington played three preseason games before the regular season began.

Washington finished the preseason with one win and two losses.

2026 Regular Season Results

The Washington Commanders opened the regular season with two road games. Washington then returned home for its Week 3 matchup against Seattle.

After three regular-season games, Washington’s record stood at 1–2. The team earned its first win of the season by beating the Seattle Seahawks 33–31 at Northwest Stadium on September 27.

Week 1 – Philadelphia Eagles

Washington opened the 2026 regular season on the road against the Philadelphia Eagles.

The Washington Commanders lost the game 24–22. It was the first of two consecutive road games to start the season.

Week 2 – Dallas Cowboys

In Week 2, Washington traveled to Texas to face the Dallas Cowboys.

The Commanders lost 37–20 at AT&T Stadium. The game gave Washington a 0–2 record after the opening two weeks.

Week 3 – Seattle Seahawks

Washington returned to Northwest Stadium for its 2026 home opener against the Seattle Seahawks.

The Washington Commanders won a close game 33–31 on September 27. The victory moved Washington to 1–2 and gave the team its first regular-season win of 2026.

Week 4 – Indianapolis Colts

Washington’s next game is against the Indianapolis Colts in Week 4.

The game is scheduled for October 4, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. ET at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London. It is part of the NFL’s international schedule.

This will be an important road trip for Washington because it is the team’s first international game of the 2026 season. The Commanders entered the matchup with a 1–2 record.

2026 Remaining Schedule

Washington has a full schedule of NFC East games along with matchups against teams from the NFC West and AFC South.

The dates for Weeks 16–18 are subject to the NFL’s final scheduling decisions.

Key Players in 2026

Jayden Daniels remains the central player at quarterback. He entered his third season with Washington and is working in the new offensive system under David Blough.

Terry McLaurin also remains one of Washington’s key offensive players. The wide receiver is part of the team’s veteran core heading into the 2026 season.

The 2026 roster also includes players such as Stefon Diggs, Frankie Luvu, Jeremy Reaves and Tress Way, giving Washington experience across different areas of the roster.

2026 Season Schedule Highlights

The 2026 schedule has several notable features for Washington.

The Commanders began the season with two straight road games, something the team had not done since 2012. Washington also has an early bye in Week 7.

The team will play the Houston Texans at Northwest Stadium in Week 14, giving the Commanders a Texas matchup during the second half of the season.

Washington is also scheduled to play four primetime games during the 2026 regular season and seven standalone games.

Washington Commanders 2026 Season So Far

After three regular-season games, Washington has a 1–2 record.

The Commanders lost close games to Philadelphia and Dallas before responding with a 33–31 home victory over Seattle. The team now moves into Week 4 with its London matchup against Indianapolis next on the schedule.

The 2026 season remains a long campaign, with Washington scheduled to play 18 regular-season games before the postseason picture is finalized.

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