Commanders’ DC Return Is Meaningful, Even for Divided Fans

The Commanders’ return to Washington, D.C. means a great deal to longtime football fans and to the city’s sports identity as a whole, even as some remain conflicted because of the franchise’s name change. Chris Russell argues that the early images of the new stadium have created a honeymoon-like buzz around the team, sparking excitement and nostalgia among the fanbase. However, he cautions that the glow won’t last if the product on the field doesn’t deliver. If the team struggles and ticket prices rise, as many expect, fans will quickly move past how impressive the stadium looks and refocus on what ultimately matters most: winning football games.