Doug Williams is one of the more celebrated players in Washington’s franchise history. This week was the 34th anniversary of Washington’s 42-10 triumph over the Denver Broncos in Super Bowl XXII. Williams, who completed 18 of 29 passes for 340 yards with four touchdowns, was named the MVP.
He became the first African-American quarterback to win a Super Bowl and Super Bowl MVP.
Since his retirement, Williams has worked as a college head coach and NFL executive. He returned to Washington in 2014, serving in various roles in the team’s front office. Williams is currently a senior adviser.
So, it was no surprise that Williams was involved in unveiling the team’s new name Wednesday. Williams, Pro Bowl defensive tackle Jonathan Allen and team president Jason Wright were live on NBC’s Today Show to reveal Commanders as Washington’s new name.
Williams spoke on Washington’s new name and uniforms in the included video.
“I think the uniform and stuff says a lot,” Williams answered when asked about the new uniforms. What I like about it is it is clean and good-looking.”
Williams was then asked about the rebranding process and why this was such a big deal for the DMV (DC, Maryland, Virginia) community.
“Well, I’m certainly not going to say the DMV is gonna take it easy,” Williams said. “You got so many people in this neighborhood that loved the name Washington Redskins for so long that’s all they know. So, it’s something they have to get used to. So I know everybody’s not going to like the new name, but I think they have to give it a chance, let it work. And I also think the team has got to do a good job on the football field. too.”
The name is certainly divisive for Washington fans. But it would be this way regardless of the chosen name. Williams is right; fans should give it a chance — but the team needs to handle its business on the field.
