As the Washington Commanders navigate their rebranding, former quarterback Mark Rypien shares his sentiments about the team's controversial name change.
Former Washington Redskins quarterback Mark Rypien holds a special place in the franchise's history. He led the team to their last Super Bowl victory and appearance in 1992. However, the team's recent decision to rebrand has stirred up mixed emotions for Rypien.
In an interview with 106.7 The Fan in Washington, Rypien expressed his disapproval of the Washington Commanders brand. "I never played for the Commanders. I absolutely support the Commanders and what they're doing now. But I never played for them," he asserted.
Mark Rypien Reflects on Washington's Legacy as "Redskins
Rypien's attachment to the Redskins name stems from his belief that it encapsulates the team's rich history and his own legacy as a player. "I just hope they don't lose the fact that we were 'Redskins,'" he said. "That's all I played for. That's what I knew, and that's all we remember."
While embracing the present, Rypien remains nostalgic for the past. "We are going to support these guys because that's the era we are in. I am not a Commanders' legend. I am a Redskin. I love my guys," he emphasized.
Mark Rypien Reflects on Washington's Legacy as "Redskins
Rypien's sentiments echo the ongoing debate surrounding the team's name change. Former team owner Daniel Snyder initially changed the name to Washington Football Team in 2020, citing racial sensitivities. However, current owner Josh Harris maintains that a return to the Redskins moniker is unlikely.
"For obvious reasons, the old name can't come back," Harris told reporters. "But right now, we're focused on things to unify the team around our football team and unify the city around our football team."
Mark Rypien Reflects on Washington's Legacy as "Redskins
Despite the rebranding, Rypien's legacy as a Redskin remains intact. He holds several franchise records, including most passing yards (15,928) and most touchdown passes (101). His performance in Super Bowl XXVI earned him the title of Super Bowl MVP.
The Washington Commanders may be experiencing a new era, but Rypien's connection to the Redskins' legacy serves as a reminder of the team's past successes. The team's identity may evolve, but the memories and achievements of the past will forever be etched into its history.
As the Commanders strive to establish their own identity, Rypien's words resonate: "I want to support these guys, this team, and get this Commanders football team back to playing the type of football the Redskins played back in our era."
