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The Washington Commanders’ quest for a playing field at the former RFK Stadium site in D.C. received a significant boost on Friday when former President Donald Trump applied pressure on the team regarding its name.
The D.C. Council passed the bill with a 9-3 vote. However, the legislation must undergo a second approval by the council before being forwarded to Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser, who assisted the Commanders in executing the initial plan earlier this year. The second vote is scheduled for September 17.
FILE – Washington Commanders controlling owner Josh Harris, center, is passed a helmet to sign next to District of Columbia Mayor Muriel Bowser, right, after announcing a new home for the NFL football team on the site of the old RFK Stadium, Monday, April 28, 2025, at the National Press Club in Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, File)
Bowser, team owner Josh Harris, and NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell previously announced an agreement with D.C. officials for the old RFK Stadium site in April. Afterward, the three, along with Trump, celebrated in the Oval Office.
The approved plan will facilitate a $3.7 billion redevelopment project, including the new stadium, 6,000 housing units, retail space, and parkland. Additionally, the nation’s capital is set to host an upcoming NFL Draft on the National Mall in 2027.
“Today’s Council approval is a transformative moment for D.C. and brings the Commanders back to our historic home,” said Harris in a statement. “RFK holds memories that inspired my love for this team and city. We are now closer than ever to reigniting that spirit for a new generation.”
RFK Stadium in Washington before the start of an MLS soccer match between D.C. United and Toronto FC, Saturday, Aug. 5, 2017. D.C. (AP Photo/Pablo Martinez Monsivais, File)
RFK Now!, an organization that advocated for the Commanders to secure the stadium, expressed satisfaction with the council’s decision.
“We are pleased that the Council listened to DC residents and advanced a great deal for our city,” stated Malcom Fox, the executive director of Opportunity DC and organizer of RFK Now!. “Just a few years ago, bringing the Commanders home seemed impossible. With today’s vote, we’re on track to secure the largest private investment in DC history. This is a significant victory that will create opportunities in Ward 7 and throughout the District for years to come.”
Washington Commanders tight ends line up during practice at the team’s NFL football training camp, Sunday, July 27, 2025, in Ashburn, Va. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)
Despite Trump’s objections, Harris has affirmed that the Commanders’ name will remain unchanged.
