Editing Washington Commanders (section)

==History==
{{See also|History of the Washington Commanders|List of Washington Commanders seasons|label 2 = list of seasons}}

===George Preston Marshall era (1932–1965)===
[[File:George Marshall and Ray Flaherty, football coach of Washington Redskins (cropped).jpg|thumb|left|Team founder [[George Preston Marshall]] with head coach [[Ray Flaherty]], 1937]]
The city of [[Boston]] was awarded a [[National Football League]] (NFL) franchise on July 9, 1932, under the ownership of American businessman [[George Preston Marshall]].<ref name="thirties">{{Cite web |title=The 1930s |url=https://www.commanders.com/team/history/1930-by-the-decade |access-date=February 2, 2022 |website=Commanders.com |archive-date=April 6, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200406193933/https://www.redskins.com/team/history/1930-by-the-decade |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Washington Football Team Team Facts |url=https://www.profootballhof.com/teams/washington-football-team/team-facts/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210101230225/https://www.profootballhof.com/teams/washington-football-team/team-facts/ |archive-date=January 1, 2021 |access-date=September 22, 2020 |website=ProFootballHOF.com}}</ref> The team was named after the [[Boston Braves]] baseball team, with whom they shared [[Braves Field]], with the [[1932 Boston Braves (NFL) season|inaugural season]] coached by [[Lud Wray]]. The team saw several changes in [[1933 Boston Redskins season|1933]], including a name change to the "Redskins" and playing their home games at [[Fenway Park]], home of the [[Boston Red Sox]]. Wray was also replaced at head coach by [[Lone Star Dietz]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Waggoner |first=Linda M. |author-link=Linda Waggoner |title=On Trial: The R*dskins Wily Mascot: Coach William "Lone Star" Dietz |url=http://nmai.si.edu/sites/1/files/pdf/seminars-symposia/WaggonerWEBSpr2013.pdf |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170911111431/http://nmai.si.edu/sites/1/files/pdf/seminars-symposia/WaggonerWEBSpr2013.pdf |archive-date=September 11, 2017 |access-date=July 16, 2020 |website=[[Montana (journal)|Montana]] |via=[[National Museum of the American Indian]] |issue=Spring 2013}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Leiby |first=Richard |date=November 6, 2013 |title=The legend of Lone Star Dietz: Redskins namesake, coach – and possible impostor? |newspaper=[[The Washington Post]] |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/style/the-legend-of-lone-star-dietz-redskins-namesake-coach--and-possible-imposter/2013/11/06/a1358a76-466b-11e3-bf0c-cebf37c6f484_story.html |url-status=live |access-date=July 19, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190107041103/https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/style/the-legend-of-lone-star-dietz-redskins-namesake-coach--and-possible-imposter/2013/11/06/a1358a76-466b-11e3-bf0c-cebf37c6f484_story.html |archive-date=January 7, 2019}}</ref><ref name=":0">{{Cite book |last=Richman |first=Michael |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=W8pvThJ6lRMC |title=The Redskins Encyclopedia |publisher=[[Temple University Press]] |year=2008 |isbn=9781592135448 |location=[[Philadelphia]] |page=3 |quote=William 'Lone Star' Dietz, a part-blooded Native American |access-date=July 3, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200904091347/https://www.google.com/books/edition/The_Redskins_Encyclopedia/W8pvThJ6lRMC?gbpv=1 |archive-date=September 4, 2020 |url-status=live}}</ref>

The situation faced by Marshall in Boston was difficult. In 1935, Joe F. Carr opined: "To the casual observer bred in the knowledge of [[New England]]'s place in football's sun, because its cradle and nursery were there, the success of a Boston team in the professional ranks would be a foregone conclusion. Nothing could have been more erroneous. Boston finished the most forbidding ground for professional football of any large city in the country. The history of the game in Boston and New England was entirely associated with college, preparatory, and high school playing. Its eminence as an institution of sport grew in a hallowed atmosphere as an almost sacrosanct element of education which was to be kept ever free from commercial pollution."<ref>"Boston Redskins," in Joe F. Carr (ed.), ''Official Guide of the National Football League, 1935.'' New York: American Sports Publishing, 1935, pp. 16-17.</ref>

The Redskins appeared in the [[1936 NFL Championship Game]], their first championship appearance, but lost to the [[Green Bay Packers]] 21–6. In 1937, the Redskins moved to [[Washington, D.C.]], after five years in Boston, with Marshall stating that the area showed a lack of interest in the team.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Annear |first=Steve |date=July 13, 2020 |title=How did the 'Redskins' get their name, anyway? It started in Boston |url=https://www.bostonglobe.com/2020/07/13/metro/how-did-redskins-get-their-name-anyway-it-started-boston/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210211144805/https://www.bostonglobe.com/2020/07/13/metro/how-did-redskins-get-their-name-anyway-it-started-boston/ |archive-date=February 11, 2021 |access-date=January 13, 2021 |website=The Boston Globe}}</ref> Through [[1960 Washington Redskins season|1960]], the team shared baseball's [[Griffith Stadium]] with the first American League [[History of the Washington Senators (1901–1960)|Washington Senators]] baseball team.<ref>{{Cite news |date=July 24, 1998 |title=Third Stadium a Real Charm |newspaper=The Washington Post |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/sports/longterm/general/povich/launch/stadium.htm |url-status=live |access-date=April 5, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100531050452/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/sports/longterm/general/povich/launch/stadium.htm |archive-date=May 31, 2010}}</ref> In their first game in Washington, D.C., the Redskins defeated the [[1937 New York Giants season|New York Giants]] in the season opener.<ref name="thirties" /> The same season, they earned their first division title in Washington with a {{nowrap|49–14}} win over the Giants.<ref name="thirties" /> Shortly after, the team won their first championship by defeating the [[1937 Chicago Bears season|Chicago Bears]] in the [[1937 NFL Championship Game]].<ref name="thirties" />
[[File:George Preston Marshall and the Washington Redskins, 1937.jpg|thumb|Marshall talking to players [[Wayne Millner]], Charlie Malone, [[Vic Carroll]], [[Bill Young (American football lineman)|Bill Young]], [[Ed Michaels]], and Jim Garber in 1937, their [[1937 Washington Redskins season|first season in Washington, D.C.]]]]
The Redskins met the [[1940 Chicago Bears season|Bears]] again in the [[1940 NFL Championship Game]].<ref name="playoffs">{{Cite web |title=Washington Redskins playoff history | date=December 27, 2007 |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/playoffs07/news/story?page=history07/was |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080116084617/http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/playoffs07/news/story?page=history07%2Fwas |archive-date=January 16, 2008 |access-date=April 5, 2008 |publisher=[[ESPN]]}}</ref> The result, {{nowrap|73–0}} in favor of the Bears, remains the worst one-sided loss in NFL history.<ref name="playoffs" /> The Redskins won their second championship in [[1942 NFL Championship Game|1942]], defeating the [[1942 Chicago Bears season|Bears]] {{nowrap|14–6.<ref name="playoffs" />}} In [[1943 NFL Championship Game|1943]], Dutch Bergman was named head coach and led the team to a return to the [[1943 NFL Championship Game|NFL championship game]], however they were defeated by the Chicago Bears {{nowrap|41–21.<ref name="playoffs" />}} That same season, [[Sammy Baugh]] led the NFL in passing, [[Punter (American football)|punting]], and [[interception]]s.<ref>{{Cite web |title=NFL History: 1943 |url=http://www.nfl.com/history/chronology/1941-1950#1943 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080516040046/http://www.nfl.com/history/chronology/1941-1950#1943 |archive-date=May 16, 2008 |access-date=April 6, 2008 |work=[[National Football League]]}}</ref>

The Redskins played in the NFL Championship one more time before a quarter-century drought that lasted until the [[1972 NFL season|1972 season]]. With former Olympic [[gold medal]]ist [[Dudley DeGroot]] as their new head coach, the [[1945 Washington Redskins season|Redskins]] went {{Win-loss record|w=8|l=2}} during the [[1945 NFL season|1945 season]]. One of the most impressive performances came from Baugh, who had a completion percentage of 70.3.<ref>{{Cite magazine |date=December 22, 1952 |title=No. 33 |url=http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,889570,00.html |url-status=dead |magazine=[[Time (magazine)|Time]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101125223859/http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,889570,00.html |archive-date=November 25, 2010 |access-date=April 7, 2008}}</ref> They ended the season by losing to the [[1945 Cleveland Rams season|Cleveland Rams]] in the [[1945 NFL Championship Game]], 15–14.<ref name="playoffs" /> The one-point margin of victory came under scrutiny because of a [[Safety (gridiron football score)|safety]] that occurred early in the game. In the first quarter, the Redskins had the ball at their own 5-yard line. Dropping back into the [[end zone]], [[quarterback]] Baugh threw to an open receiver, but the ball hit the goal post and bounced back to the ground in the end zone. Under the rules at the time, this was ruled as a safety and thus gave the Rams a 2–0 lead. Marshall was so upset at the outcome that he became a major force in passing a major rule change after the season, in which a forward pass that struck the goalpost was automatically ruled incomplete. This later became known as the "Baugh/Marshall Rule".<ref>Nash, Bruce, and Allen Zullo (1986). ''The Football Hall of Shame'', 68–69, Pocket Books. {{ISBN|0-671-74551-4}}.</ref>

The Redskins had four different head coaches from 1946 to 1951, including former players [[Turk Edwards]] and [[Dick Todd (American football)|Dick Todd]] as well as [[John Whelchel]] and [[Herman Ball]].<ref name="seasonresults">{{Cite web |title=Washington Redskins' History |url=http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/teams/history/WAS |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161216061008/http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/teams/history/WAS |archive-date=December 16, 2016 |access-date=December 13, 2009 |website=[[CBS Sports]]}}</ref> But this did not stop Marshall from trying to make the Redskins the most successful franchise in the league. His first major alteration happened on June 14, 1950, when it was announced that the [[American Oil Company]] planned to televise all Redskins games, making them the first NFL team to have an entire season of televised games.<ref name="fifties">{{Cite web |title=The 1950s–History by the Decades |url=https://www.commanders.com/team/history/1950-by-the-decade |access-date=May 13, 2022 |website=Commanders.com }}</ref> His next major change came in February 1952, when he hired former Green Bay Packers coach [[Earl "Curly" Lambeau]].<ref name="fifties" /> But, after two seasons, Marshall fired Lambeau following the [[1952 Washington Redskins season|Redskins]] loss in their exhibition opener to the [[1952 Los Angeles Rams season|Los Angeles Rams]] and hired [[Joe Kuharich]].<ref name="fifties" /> In 1955, Kuharich led the [[1955 Washington Redskins season|Redskins]] to their first winning season in ten years and was named both [[Sporting News NFL Coach of the Year|Sporting News Coach of the Year]] and [[UPI NFL Coach of the Year]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=NFL Coach of the Year Award |url=http://www.hickoksports.com/history/nflcoy.shtml |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20121205094433/http://www.hickoksports.com/history/nflcoy.shtml |archive-date=December 5, 2012 |access-date=April 6, 2008 |work=Hickok Sports}}</ref>

In [[1961 Washington Redskins season|1961]], the Redskins moved into their new stadium called D.C. Stadium, later renamed [[Robert F. Kennedy Memorial Stadium]] in 1969. The first game in new D.C. Stadium occurred on October 1 in front of 37,767 fans. However, the Redskins failed to hold a 14-point lead and lost to the [[1961 New York Giants season|New York Giants]] {{nowrap|24–21.<ref name="sixties">{{Cite web |title=The 1960s–History by the Decades |url=https://www.commanders.com/team/history/1960-by-the-decade |access-date=May 13, 2022 |website=Commanders.com }}</ref>}} That same year, [[Bill McPeak]] became the head coach and had a record of {{Win-loss record|w=21|l=46|t=3}} over five seasons. During his tenure, he helped draft future stars: wide receiver [[Charley Taylor]], tight end [[Jerry Smith (tight end)|Jerry Smith]], safety [[Paul Krause]], center [[Len Hauss]], and linebacker [[Chris Hanburger]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=May 9, 1991 |title=Bill McPeak, Football Scout, 64 |url=https://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9D0CE4DA123FF93AA35756C0A967958260 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200904091348/https://www.nytimes.com/1991/05/09/obituaries/bill-mcpeak-football-scout-64.html |archive-date=September 4, 2020 |access-date=April 6, 2008 |work=The New York Times}}</ref> He also helped pull off two important trades, gaining quarterback [[Sonny Jurgensen]] from the [[Philadelphia Eagles]] and linebacker [[Sam Huff]] from the [[New York Giants]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Hack |first=Damon |date=October 27, 2002 |title=Pro Football: Inside The NFL; A Greatest Redskin Still Loves New York |url=https://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9507EEDC163FF934A15753C1A9649C8B63 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200904091354/https://www.nytimes.com/2002/10/27/sports/pro-football-inside-the-nfl-a-greatest-redskin-still-loves-new-york.html |archive-date=September 4, 2020 |access-date=April 5, 2008 |work=The New York Times}}</ref> In [[1966 Washington Redskins season|1966]], [[Otto Graham]] was hired as the new head coach. Graham coached the Redskins for three seasons for a record of {{Win-loss record|w=17|l=22|t=3}}. He resigned after the [[1968 Washington Redskins season|1968 season]], with the team hiring former Green Bay Packers head coach [[Vince Lombardi]] for the same role.

====Integration controversy====
[[File:Keep-redskins-white.png|thumb|left|1961 placard denouncing Marshall's integration of black players]]
During most of this unsuccessful period, Marshall continually refused to integrate the team, despite pressure from the [[U.S. government]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Lecture: Lynn Povich and George Solomon |url=http://journalism.nyu.edu/pubzone/bullpen/lynn_povich_and_george_solomon/lecture/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080623223042/http://journalism.nyu.edu/pubzone/bullpen/lynn_povich_and_george_solomon/lecture/ |archive-date=June 23, 2008 |access-date=April 5, 2008 |work=[[New York University]]}}</ref> Two months into the [[Kennedy administration]] on March 24, 1961, [[United States Secretary of the Interior|Secretary of the Interior]] [[Stewart Udall]] warned Marshall to hire black players or face federal retribution.<ref name="udall" /> For the first time in history, the federal government had attempted to desegregate a professional sports team.<ref name="integrate">{{Cite web |last=Smith |first=Thomas G. |title=Civil Rights on the Gridiron |url=https://www.espn.com/page2/wash/s/2002/0305/1346021.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080403130913/http://espn.go.com/page2/wash/s/2002/0305/1346021.html |archive-date=April 3, 2008 |access-date=April 5, 2008 |publisher=[[ESPN]]}}</ref> The Redskins were under the threat of [[civil rights]] legal action by the Kennedy administration, which would have prevented a segregated team from playing at the new federally-owned [[D.C. Stadium]], managed by the [[U.S. Department of the Interior]].<ref>{{Cite journal |date=November 7, 2013 |title=That Time Nazis Marched to "Keep Redskins White" |url=https://www.motherjones.com/politics/2013/11/nazis-desegregating-washington-nfl-football-team/ |url-status=dead |journal=Mother Jones |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190727064049/https://www.motherjones.com/politics/2013/11/nazis-desegregating-washington-nfl-football-team/ |archive-date=July 27, 2019 |access-date=July 27, 2019}}</ref> The Redskins' previous venue, [[Griffith Stadium]], was owned by the Griffith family, owners of the [[1960 Washington Senators season|Washington Senators]], who moved and became the [[Minnesota Twins]] in [[1961 Minnesota Twins season|1961]].

In [[1962 Washington Redskins season|1962]], Washington became the final professional American football franchise to integrate. First, the Redskins selected running back [[Ernie Davis]] of [[1961 Syracuse Orangemen football team|Syracuse]] with the [[List of first overall NFL draft picks|first overall pick]] in the [[1962 NFL draft]]; Davis was the first black player to win the [[Heisman Trophy]] and the first to be the top selection in an NFL draft.<ref name="udall">{{Cite news |date=December 4, 1961 |title=Washington Picks 1st Negro on Team |pages=4 |work=Petaluma Argus-Courier |agency=AP |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/65545937/ |url-status=live |access-date=December 18, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210101230303/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/65545937/ernie-davis-washington-redskins/ |archive-date=January 1, 2021}} {{open access}}</ref><ref name="trade to Browns" /> Washington also took [[Fullback (American football)|fullback]] [[Ron Hatcher]] of [[1961 Michigan State Spartans football team|Michigan State]] in the [[1962 NFL draft#Round eight|eighth round]], who became the first black player to sign a contract with the team.<ref name=integrate/><ref>{{Cite web |date=December 10, 1961 |title=Redskins sign up first Negro |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=fnRQAAAAIBAJ&pg=3137%2C7388401 |website=Milwaukee Sentinel |page=7, sports |agency=Associated Press}}{{Dead link|date=December 2021 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref>

In December 1961, Marshall announced he had traded the rights to Davis to the [[1962 Cleveland Browns season|Cleveland Browns]], who wanted Davis to join the league's leading rusher, [[Jim Brown]], in their backfield.<ref name="trade to Browns">{{Cite news |date=December 23, 1961 |title=Ernie Davis Joins Cleveland Browns |page=9 |work=[[Syracuse Post-Standard]] |location=Syracuse, New York |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/65545308/ |url-status=live |access-date=December 18, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210101230306/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/65545308/ernie-davis-joins-cleveland-browns-post/ |archive-date=January 1, 2021}} {{open access}}</ref> Davis was traded for veteran running back [[Bobby Mitchell]], who became a [[wide receiver]] in Washington, D.C., and 1962 first-round draft choice [[Leroy Jackson]] of [[Western Illinois Leathernecks football|Western Illinois]].<ref name="integrate" /><ref>{{Cite magazine |date=August 10, 1962 |title=August 1962 Scoreboard |url=http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,873711,00.html |url-status=dead |magazine=[[Time (magazine)|Time]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110219065054/http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,873711,00.html |archive-date=February 19, 2011 |access-date=April 6, 2008}}</ref> The move was made under unfortunate circumstances – as it turned out that Davis had [[leukemia]], and died without ever playing a down in professional football.<ref name="integrate" /> The Redskins ended the [[1962 Washington Redskins season|1962 season]] with their best record in five years: {{Win-loss record|w=5|l=7|t=2}}. Mitchell led the league with 11 touchdowns, and caught 72 passes and was selected to the [[1963 Pro Bowl|Pro Bowl]]. In time, Mitchell would be joined by other black players like receiver [[Charley Taylor]], running back [[Larry Brown (running back)|Larry Brown]], [[defensive back]] [[Brig Owens]], and guard [[John Nisby]].<ref name="integrate" />

=== Edward Bennett Williams era (1965–1979) ===
Marshall appointed board member [[Edward Bennett Williams]] to run the team's daily operations in 1965 due to declining health.<ref name="washingtonian">{{Cite web |date=November 2007 |title=A Look At The Four Redskins Owners |url=http://www.washingtonian.com/articles/people/5590.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080704024941/http://www.washingtonian.com/articles/people/5590.html |archive-date=July 4, 2008 |access-date=April 5, 2008 |work=[[Washingtonian (magazine)|Washingtonian]]}}</ref> He acquired controlling interest in the franchise following Marshall's death on August 9, 1969.<ref name="washingtonian"/><ref name="EBW">{{cite web |last1=Guerrieri |first1=Vince |title=Edward Bennett Williams |url=https://sabr.org/bioproj/person/edward-bennett-williams/ |website=[[Society for American Baseball Research]] |access-date=June 12, 2024}}</ref> In [[1969 Washington Redskins season|1969]], Williams hired former [[Green Bay Packers]] head coach [[Vince Lombardi]] for the same role, granting him a 5% stake in ownership and full control over football operations as the team's executive vice president.<ref name="RedskinsLegacy">{{cite web |title=Vince Lombardi's Enduring Redskins Legacy |url=https://www.commanders.com/news/vince-lombardi-s-enduring-redskins-legacy-10351640 |website=Commanders.com |access-date=June 12, 2024}}</ref> Lombardi coached the Redskins to a {{Win-loss record|w=7|l=5|t=2}} record, their first winning season since [[1955 Washington Redskins season|1955]], but died from cancer shortly before the start of the [[1970 Washington Redskins season|1970 season]].<ref name="RedskinsLegacy"/> [[Bill Austin (American football, born 1928)|Bill Austin]], appointed earlier by Lombardi, served as interim head coach for the season.

==== George Allen years (1971–1977) ====
[[File:Richard M. Nixon meeting with the Washington Redskins football team. - NARA - 194738.jpg|thumb|U.S. President [[Richard Nixon]] meeting with the team in 1971]]
On January 6, 1971, Williams hired former [[Los Angeles Rams]] head coach [[George Allen (American football coach)|George Allen]] as head coach and general manager.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Brady |first1=Dave |title=Redskins Hire Allen As Coach |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/sports/redskins/longterm/1997/history/allart/allen_hired.htm |newspaper=[[The Washington Post]] |access-date=June 12, 2024 |date=January 7, 1971}}</ref> Partial to seasoned veterans instead of highly touted young players, Allen's teams became known as the [[The Over-the-Hill Gang (American football)|Over-the-Hill Gang]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=His past molds Bucs' future |url=http://www.sptimes.com/2004/09/10/Bucs/His_past_molds_Bucs__.shtml |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090103212830/http://www.sptimes.com/2004/09/10/Bucs/His_past_molds_Bucs__.shtml |archive-date=January 3, 2009 |access-date=April 5, 2008 |website=[[St. Petersburg Times]]}}</ref> That [[1971 NFL season|season]], the [[1971 Washington Redskins season|Redskins]] made the [[1971–72 NFL playoffs|playoffs]] for the first time since 1945 with a {{Win-loss record|w=9|l=4|t=1}} record<ref name="seasonresults" /> with Redskins first-year head coach George Allen winning the 1971 [[NFL Coach of the Year]] award, the second of his career, having won his first in 1967 as head coach of the Los Angeles Rams.<ref>{{Cite web |title=AP Coach of the Year Winners |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/ap-coach-of-the-year.htm |access-date=August 10, 2024 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> However, they lost in the Divisional Playoffs to the [[1971 San Francisco 49ers season|San Francisco 49ers]], 24–20.<ref name="seventies">{{Cite web |title=The 1970s–History by the Decades |url=https://www.commanders.com/team/history/1970-by-the-decade |access-date=May 13, 2022 |website=Commanders.com |archive-date=May 13, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220513044001/https://www.commanders.com/team/history/1970-by-the-decade |url-status=live }}</ref>

The [[1972 NFL season|following season]], the [[1972 Washington Redskins season|Redskins]] hosted their first postseason game in Washington since 1942, where they beat the [[1972 Green Bay Packers season|Green Bay Packers]] 16–3 in the [[1972–73 NFL playoffs|NFC Divisional Playoffs]].<ref name="playoffs" /> The Redskins reached the [[NFC Championship Game]], and in a much-anticipated match-up against the archrival [[Dallas Cowboys]], The Redskins placekicker [[Curt Knight]] kicked an 18-yard field goal in the second quarter to get the scoring underway, then Redskins quarterback [[Billy Kilmer]] connected with Redskins wide receiver [[Charley Taylor]] on a 15-yard touchdown pass and Washington had a 10–3 lead at halftime. In the fourth quarter, Kilmer again went to Taylor, this time for a 45-yard touchdown. Knight added three more field goals that period and The Over-The-Hill-Gang defense allowed only a second-quarter field goal. The final score was Washington 26, Dallas 3.<ref>{{Cite web |title=NFC Championship - Dallas Cowboys at Washington Redskins - December 31st, 1972 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/197212310was.htm |access-date=August 10, 2024 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> After defeating the Dallas Cowboys to win the NFC Championship, the Redskins went on to lose to the [[1972 Miami Dolphins season|undefeated]] [[Miami Dolphins]] 14–7 in [[Super Bowl VII]].<ref name="seventies" /> Redskins running back [[Larry Brown (running back)|Larry Brown]] would be named the 1972 [[NFL MVP]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=1972 Awards Voting |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/awards_1972.htm |access-date=August 10, 2024 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> The Redskins again made the playoffs in [[1973–74 NFL playoffs|1973]], [[1974–75 NFL playoffs|1974]], and [[1976–77 NFL playoffs|1976]], only to lose all three times in the first round.<ref name="seventies" /> After the team failed to make the playoffs in [[1977 Washington Redskins season|Redskins]] despite a {{Win-loss record|w=9|l=5}} record, Allen was fired and was replaced at head coach by [[Jack Pardee]].<ref name="seasonresults" />

=== Jack Kent Cooke era (1979–1998) ===
Canadian-American businessman [[Jack Kent Cooke]], who had owned minority shares of the Redskins and been a board member since 1960, purchased majority interest from [[Edward Bennett Williams]] in 1974.<ref name="EBW"/> Due to NFL rules at the time disallowing controlling ownership in other leagues, he allowed Williams to operate the team until selling his other properties, the NBA's [[Los Angeles Lakers]] and the NHL's [[Los Angeles Kings]], to [[Jerry Buss]] in May 1979.<ref name="EBW"/> Cooke became the team's sole owner in 1985 after purchasing the remaining shares from Williams for around $9 million.<ref name="EBW"/>

==== Joe Gibbs years (1981–1992) ====
[[File:Joe Gibbs Redskins.jpg|thumb|Head coach [[Joe Gibbs]] won [[Super Bowl]]s in 1982, 1987, and 1991. He was inducted into the [[Pro Football Hall of Fame]] in 1996.]]
[[Jack Pardee]], the 1979 [[AP NFL Coach of the Year|NFL Coach of the Year]], was fired following a {{Win-loss record|w=6|l=10}} record in [[1980 Washington Redskins season|1980]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=January 6, 1981 |title=REDSKINS OUST PARDEE |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1981/01/06/sports/redskins-oust-pardee.html |access-date=August 10, 2024 |website=The New York Times|agency=Associated Press |language=en-US}}</ref> On January 13, 1981, Cooke hired [[San Diego Chargers]] offensive coordinator [[Joe Gibbs]] as head coach.<ref name="eighties">{{Cite web |title=The 1980s–History by the Decades |url=https://www.commanders.com/team/history/1980-by-the-decade |access-date=May 13, 2022 |website=Commanders.com |archive-date=May 13, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220513044002/https://www.commanders.com/team/history/1980-by-the-decade |url-status=live }}</ref> During the offseason, the Redskins acquired players such as [[Mark May]], [[Russ Grimm]], and [[Dexter Manley]] in the [[1981 NFL draft]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=1981 Washington Redskins Draftees |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/was/1981_draft.htm |access-date=August 10, 2024 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> After starting the [[1981 Washington Redskins season|1981 season]] {{Win-loss record|w=0|l=5}}, the Redskins won eight out of their next 11 games and finished the season {{Win-loss record|w=8|l=8}} but fourth in the NFC East.<ref>{{Cite web |title=1981 Washington Redskins Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/was/1981.htm |access-date=August 10, 2024 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref>

===== Super Bowl XVII champions (1982) =====
{{Main|1982 Washington Redskins season}}
[[File:Joe Theismann1983.jpg|thumb|left|Quarterback [[Joe Theismann]] won the 1983 [[NFL MVP]] award]]
Starting on September 21, 1982,<ref name="eighties" /> the NFL faced a 57-day long players' [[1982 NFL strike|strike]], which reduced the [[1982 NFL season|1982 season]] from a 16-game schedule to nine.<ref name="z547">{{cite web | title=NFL strike ends after 57 days in 1982 | website=New York Daily News | date=November 16, 2015 | url=https://www.nydailynews.com/2015/11/16/nfl-strike-ends-after-57-days-in-1982/ | access-date=August 10, 2024}}</ref><ref name="d560">{{cite web | last=Wojciechowski | first=Gene | title=NFL STRIKE : 1982 : A History Lesson Not Learned | website=Los Angeles Times | date=September 23, 1987 | url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1987-09-23-sp-6303-story.html | access-date=August 10, 2024}}</ref> Because of the shortened season, the NFL adopted a special 16-team playoff tournament, in which eight teams from each conference were seeded 1–8 based on their regular season records. After the strike was settled, the Redskins dominated, winning six out of the seven remaining games to make the playoffs for the first time since 1976.<ref name="seasonresults" />

In January 1983, during the second round of the [[1982–83 NFL playoffs|playoffs]] against the [[Minnesota Vikings]], [[John Riggins]] rushed for franchise playoff record 185 yards, leading Washington to a 21–7 win.<ref name="w459">{{cite web | last=Lambert | first=Ivan | title=John Riggins took a bow for the RFK fans in the 82 playoffs | website=Yahoo! Money | date=January 21, 2023 | url=https://money.yahoo.com/john-riggins-took-bow-rfk-140000145.html | access-date=August 10, 2024}}</ref> The game is perhaps best known for a moment when the stadium physically shook as a crowd chanted "We Want Dallas!", which later became a rallying cry of sorts for Redskin fans before games against the Cowboys.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Steinberg |first=Dan |date=November 21, 2016 |title=Redskins fans are back to chanting 'We Want Dallas' |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/dc-sports-bog/wp/2016/11/21/redskins-fans-are-back-to-chanting-we-want-dallas/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180518055514/https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/dc-sports-bog/wp/2016/11/21/redskins-fans-are-back-to-chanting-we-want-dallas/ |archive-date=May 18, 2018 |access-date=May 17, 2018 |newspaper=[[The Washington Post]]}}</ref> In the NFC Championship Game against them at [[RFK Stadium]], Redskins defensive end [[Dexter Manley]] knocked Cowboys' quarterback [[Danny White]] out for the rest of the game and sent him into the locker room shortly before halftime. Later in the game, Redskins defensive tackle [[Darryl Grant]]'s interception, which he returned for a 10-yard touchdown, off one of Cowboys' backup quarterback [[Gary Hogeboom]]'s passes which was tipped by Dexter Manley to score the decisive points. John Riggins rushed for 140 yards and two touchdowns on 36 carries and the Redskins went on to defeat the Cowboys' by a score of 31–17.<ref name="eighties" /> The Redskins' first [[Super Bowl]] win, and their first NFL Championship in 40 years, was in [[Super Bowl XVII]], where the Redskins defeated the [[Miami Dolphins]] 27–17.<ref name="playoffs" /> Riggins provided the game's signature play when, on 4th and inches, with the Redskins down 17–13, the coaches called "70 Chip", a play designed for short yardage.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Denlinger |first=Ken |date=January 31, 1982 |title=Magic '70 Chip' Ends Four Decades of Trying |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/sports/longterm/memories/gibbs/82sbowl.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100531050503/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/sports/longterm/memories/gibbs/82sbowl.htm |archive-date=May 31, 2010 |access-date=April 5, 2008 |newspaper=The Washington Post}}</ref> Riggins instead gained {{convert|43|yd|abbr=off|sp=us}} by running through would-be tackler [[Don McNeal]] and getting the go-ahead touchdown. The Redskins ended up winning by a 27–17 score with John Riggins winning the [[Super Bowl MVP]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Super Bowl XVII - Miami Dolphins vs. Washington Redskins - January 30th, 1983 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/198301300mia.htm |access-date=August 10, 2024 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref><ref name="t732">{{cite web | last=Kimes | first=Mina | title=NFL 100 | website=NFL.com | url=https://www.nfl.com/100/originals/100-greatest/games-73 | access-date=August 10, 2024}}</ref>

After the [[1982 Washington Redskins season|1982 season]] Redskins placekicker [[Mark Moseley]] was the first and only placekicker in NFL history to be named the [[List of NFL Most Valuable Player awards|NFL's Most Valuable Player]];<ref name="g201">{{cite web | last=Morse | first=Ben | title=Mark Moseley became the first player in his position to win the NFL MVP. He thinks the feat will never be matched | website=CNN | date=February 8, 2023 | url=https://www.cnn.com/2023/02/08/sport/mark-moseley-1982-mvp-nfl-spt-intl/index.html | access-date=August 10, 2024}}</ref> Moseley made 20 of 21 field goals attempted in 1982.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Mark Moseley 1982 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/M/moselmar01/gamelog/1982/ |access-date=August 10, 2024 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> Redskins head coach [[Joe Gibbs]] also won his first [[NFL Coach of the Year]] award in 1982, which was the first of his back-to-back NFL Coach of the Year awards, his second coming in the [[1983 NFL season]].<ref name="x479">{{cite web | last=Pitts | first=Brian | title=40 years ago: It's true, Joe Gibbs is a native of Mocksville | website=Davie County Enterprise Record | date=June 6, 2023 | url=https://www.ourdavie.com/2023/06/06/40-years-ago-its-true-joe-gibbs-is-a-native-of-mocksville/ | access-date=August 10, 2024}}</ref>

Cornerback [[Darrell Green]] and defensive end [[Charles Mann (American football)|Charles Mann]] were selected in the [[1983 NFL draft]] and became key contributors for the team; Green would play his entire 20-year career with the Redskins. On October 1, 1983, the Redskins lost to the [[1983 Green Bay Packers season|Green Bay Packers]] 48–47 in the highest-scoring [[History of Monday Night Football|Monday night football game in history]], in which both teams combine for more than {{convert|1000|yd}} of total offense.<ref name="eighties" /> Then during the regular-season finale on December 17, 1983, Moseley set an NFL scoring record with 161 points while Riggins' total of 144 points was second. This marked the first time since 1951 that the top two scorers in a season played on the same team.<ref name="eighties" /> They dominated the NFL with a 14-win season which included scoring a then NFL record 541 points,<ref>{{Cite web |title=1983 Washington Redskins |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/was/1983.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080410203729/http://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/was/1983.htm |archive-date=April 10, 2008 |access-date=April 5, 2008 |work=Pro Football Reference}}</ref> many of which came from Riggins, who scored 24 touchdowns. Redskins quarterback [[Joe Theismann]] would also be named the 1983 NFL's Most Valuable Player finishing the season with a career-high in both yards passing 3,714 yds., and touchdown passes thrown, 29 Td's while throwing only 11 interceptions. In the postseason, the Redskins beat the [[1983 Los Angeles Rams season|Los Angeles Rams]] 51–7.<ref name="playoffs" /> The next week, Washington beat the [[1983 San Francisco 49ers season|San Francisco 49ers]] 24–21 in the [[NFC Championship Game]].<ref name="playoffs" /> It was their final win of the season because two weeks later, the [[1983 Los Angeles Raiders season|Raiders]] beat the Redskins 38–9 in [[Super Bowl XVIII]].<ref name="playoffs" />

The Redskins finished the [[1984 Washington Redskins season|1984 season]] with an {{Win-loss record|w=11|l=5}} record,<ref name="seasonresults" /> and won the NFC East for the third consecutive season.<ref name="eighties" /> However, they lost in the first round of the [[1984–85 NFL playoffs|playoffs]] to the [[Chicago Bears]], 23–19.<ref name="playoffs" /> On November 18, 1985, while playing against the [[1985 New York Giants season|Giants]], Theismann broke his leg during a sack by [[Lawrence Taylor]]. The [[Bone fracture|compound fracture]] forced him to retire after a 12-year career, during which he became the Redskins' all-time leader in pass attempts and completions.<ref name="eighties" /> The Redskins finished 3rd in the NFC East behind the [[1985 Dallas Cowboys season|Cowboys]] and missed the wild card to the Giants by virtue of [[tiebreakers]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=1985 Washington Redskins Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/was/1985.htm |access-date=August 10, 2024 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=1985 NFL Standings & Team Stats |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1985/index.htm |access-date=August 10, 2024 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref>

The 1986 offseason's major highlight occurred during the [[1986 NFL draft]], when the Redskins picked up future Super Bowl MVP [[Mark Rypien]] in the sixth round, also the Redskins defensive end Dexter Manley set a franchise single-season record when he recorded 18.5 sacks while earning [[All-Pro]] honors. In [[1986 Washington Redskins season|1986 season]], the Redskins making the postseason as a wild-card team despite having a regular-season record of {{Win-loss record|w=12|l=4}}.<ref name="seasonresults" /> They won the Wild Card playoff against the Rams, and then again in the Divisional playoffs against the Bears. This game was Gibbs's 70th career, which made him the winningest head coach in Redskins history.<ref name="eighties" /> The season ended next week, however, when the Redskins lost to the eventual [[Super Bowl XXI]] Champion Giants 17–0 in the NFC Championship game.<ref name="playoffs" /><ref name="eighties" />

===== Super Bowl XXII champions (1987) =====
{{Main|1987 Washington Redskins season}}
The [[1987 NFL season]] began with a [[1987 NFL strike|players' strike]] that reduced the 16-game season to 15.<ref name="b433">{{cite web | last=Merrill | first=Elizabeth | title=NFL replacements part of history | website=ESPN.com | date=June 9, 2011 | url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=6642330 | access-date=August 10, 2024}}</ref> No Redskins players crossed the picket line—the only such team—and the games for Weeks 4–6 were won with all-replacement squads.<ref>{{Cite web |date=January 7, 2004 |title=Gibbs' first job is to tame Snyder |url=https://www.usatoday.com/sports/columnist/brennan/2004-01-08-brennan-gibbs_x.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070806105637/http://www.usatoday.com/sports/columnist/brennan/2004-01-08-brennan-gibbs_x.htm |archive-date=August 6, 2007 |access-date=April 5, 2008 |work=USA Today}}</ref> Those three victories, often credited with getting the team into the playoffs, are the basis for the 2000 movie ''[[The Replacements (film)|The Replacements]]''. The Redskins won their second championship in [[Super Bowl XXII]] on January 31, 1988, in San Diego, California. The Redskins routed the [[1987 Denver Broncos season|Denver Broncos]] 42–10<ref name="playoffs" /> after starting the game down 10–0, the largest come-from-behind victory in Super Bowl history, which was tied by the [[New Orleans Saints]] in [[Super Bowl XLIV]] and the [[New England Patriots]] in [[Super Bowl XLIX]]. This game is also noted for [[Super Bowl MVP]] quarterback [[Doug Williams (quarterback)|Doug Williams]], who threw four touchdowns in the second quarter en route to becoming the first black quarterback to lead his team to a championship,<ref name="williams">{{Cite news |date=July 23, 1998 |title=Williams Delivers a Super Bowl Triumph |newspaper=The Washington Post |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/sports/redskins/longterm/1997/history/allart/87sbowl.htm |url-status=live |access-date=April 5, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110513164619/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/sports/redskins/longterm/1997/history/allart/87sbowl.htm |archive-date=May 13, 2011}}</ref> and for rookie running back [[Timmy Smith]], who ran for a Super Bowl-record {{convert|204|yd}}.<ref name="williams" />

In [[1988 Washington Redskins season|1988]], the team missed the playoffs with a {{Win-loss record|w=7|l=9}} record.<ref>{{Cite web |title=1988 Washington Redskins Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/was/1988.htm |access-date=August 10, 2024 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> The [[1989 Washington Redskins season|1989]] Redskins finished with a {{Win-loss record|w=10|l=6}} record but missed the playoffs. The team is best remembered for [[List of NFL nicknames|"The Posse"]]—[[Art Monk]], [[Gary Clark (American football)|Gary Clark]], and [[Ricky Sanders]]—the first trio of NFL wide receivers to post more than 1,000 yards apiece in a single season. Also, Redskins head coach [[Joe Gibbs]] achieved his 100th career victory in a week-14 win against the [[San Diego Chargers]]. The Redskins returned to the [[1990–91 NFL playoffs|playoffs]] in [[1990 Washington Redskins season|1990]] as a Wild Card team, but lost in the Divisional round to the [[1990 San Francisco 49ers season|49ers]].<ref name="playoffs" />

===== Super Bowl XXVI champions (1991) =====
[[File:Commanders' three Vince Lombardi Trophy, 2023.jpg|thumb|Washington's three [[Vince Lombardi Trophy|Vince Lombardi Trophies]] at the team's [[Ashburn, Virginia]], headquarters]]
{{Main|1991 Washington Redskins season}}
The [[1991 Washington Redskins season|1991 season]] started with a franchise-record 11 straight wins.<ref name="nineties">{{Cite web |title=The 1990s–History by the Decades |url=https://www.commanders.com/team/history/1990-by-the-decade |access-date=May 13, 2022 |website=Commanders.com }}</ref> "[[The Hogs (American football)|The Hogs]]", under the coaching of Redskins offensive line coach [[Joe Bugel]], allowed a franchise-record nine sacks, the third-lowest total in NFL history.<ref name="nineties" /> The offense also dominated under head football coach [[Joe Gibbs]], scoring 485 points, more than any other team [[1991 NFL season|that year]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=1991 NFL Standings & Team Stats |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1991/index.htm |access-date=July 31, 2024 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> The defense was also dominant under defensive coordinator [[Richie Petitbon]], giving up 224 total points, second-best of any team that year, while holding opponents scoreless three times.<ref>{{Cite web |title=1991 NFL Opposition & Defensive Statistics |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1991/opp.htm |access-date=July 31, 2024 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=1991 Washington Redskins Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/was/1991.htm |access-date=July 31, 2024 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> After posting a {{Win-loss record|w=14|l=2}} record, the Redskins dominated the [[1991–92 NFL playoffs|playoffs]], beating the [[1991 Atlanta Falcons season|Falcons]] and [[1991 Detroit Lions season|Lions]] by a combined score of 64–17.<ref name="playoffs" /> On January 26, 1992, the Redskins won [[Super Bowl XXVI]] by defeating the [[Buffalo Bills]] 37–24;<ref name="playoffs" /> QB [[Mark Rypien]] won the [[Super Bowl MVP]] award.<ref name="a547">{{cite web | last=Shoot | first=Jason | title='It feels like yesterday': Mark Rypien looks back 30 years to his Super Bowl MVP-winning performance | website=Spokesman.com | date=February 13, 2022 | url=https://www.spokesman.com/stories/2022/feb/13/it-feels-like-yesterday-mark-rypien-looks-back-30-/ | access-date=July 31, 2024}}</ref> After the Super Bowl, the Redskins set another franchise record by sending eight players to the [[Pro Bowl]].<ref name="nineties" /> The [[1991 Washington Redskins]] are widely considered one of the best teams in NFL history.<ref name="k005">{{cite web | title=Football Outsiders Ranks 1991 Redskins As The Best Team Of Last 30 Years | website=Commanders.com | date=June 22, 2017 | url=https://www.commanders.com/news/football-outsiders-ranks-1991-redskins-as-the-best-team-of-last-30-year-18988677 | access-date=July 31, 2024}}</ref>

In [[1992 Washington Redskins season|1992]], the Redskins reached the playoffs as a wild-card team, but lost in the [[1992–93 NFL playoffs#NFC: San Francisco 49ers 20, Washington Redskins 13|Divisional playoffs]] to the [[1992 San Francisco 49ers season|49ers]], 20–13.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Wild Card - Washington Redskins at Minnesota Vikings - January 2nd, 1993 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/199301020min.htm |access-date=July 31, 2024 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Divisional Round - Washington Redskins at San Francisco 49ers - January 9th, 1993 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/199301090sfo.htm |access-date=July 31, 2024 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> On October 12, 1992, [[Art Monk]] became the NFL's all-time leading pass receiver by catching his 820th career reception against the [[1992 Denver Broncos season|Denver Broncos]] on ''[[Monday Night Football]]''.<ref name="nineties" /> The era ended on March 5, 1993, when Gibbs retired after 12 years of coaching with the Redskins.<ref name="nineties" /> Gibbs later founded [[Joe Gibbs Racing]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Profile and History |url=http://www.joegibbsracing.com/joegibbs/prhist.php |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080308060033/http://www.joegibbsracing.com/joegibbs/prhist.php |archive-date=March 8, 2008 |access-date=April 5, 2008 |website=Joe Gibbs Racing}}</ref>

After the end of Gibbs' first tenure, the Redskins hired former Redskins player [[Richie Petitbon]] for the [[1993 Washington Redskins season|1993 season]]. However, his first and only year as head coach, the [[1993 Washington Redskins season|Redskins]] finished with a record of {{Win-loss record|w=4|l=12}}.<ref name="seasonresults" /> Petitbon was fired at the end of the season and on February 2, 1994, [[Norv Turner]] was hired as head coach after being the [[offensive coordinator]] of the [[Dallas Cowboys]].<ref name="nineties" /> [[1994 Washington Redskins season|1994]] was even worse as they finished {{Win-loss record|w=3|l=13}}, their worst season in over 30 years. Their sole bright spot that year came on October 9, 1994, linebacker [[Monte Coleman]] played in his 206th career game with the Redskins, which broke Art Monk's team record for games played (Coleman retired at season's end with 216 games played).<ref name="nineties" /> They improved to {{Win-loss record|w=6|l=10}} in [[1995 Washington Redskins season|1995]] where they were able to get a season sweep on the eventual [[Super Bowl XXX]] Champions the Dallas Cowboys. On March 13, 1996, Redskins owner [[Jack Kent Cooke]], [[Maryland Governor]] [[Parris Glendening]], and [[List of Prince George's County Executives#County executive and council|Prince George's County Executive]] [[Wayne K. Curry]] signed a contract that paved the way for the immediate start of construction for the new home of the Redskins (now Northwest Stadium).<ref name="nineties" /> The [[1996 Washington Redskins season|1996 season]] saw Washington post their first winning record in 4 years by finishing {{Win-loss record|w=9|l=7}}. On December 22, 1996, the Redskins played their final game at [[RFK Stadium]], a victory over the [[1996 Dallas Cowboys season|Dallas Cowboys]] 37–10, and finished their tenure at the stadium with a {{Win-loss record|w=173|l=102|t=3}} record, including {{Win-loss record|w=11|l=1}} in the playoffs.<ref name="nineties" />

On April 6, 1997, Redskins owner Jack Kent Cooke died of [[congestive heart failure]] at the age of 84.<ref name="nineties" /> In his will, Cooke left the Redskins to the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation, with instructions to sell the team. In the meantime, management of the team was given to son and executive vice president John Kent Cooke.<ref name="nineties" /><ref>{{cite web |title=1998 Redskins Media Guide |url=https://archive.org/details/redskins-1998-media-guide-washington-c/page/6/mode/2up |website=[[Internet Archive]] |publisher=Washington Redskins |access-date=June 17, 2024 |page=6 |format=PDF |date=1998}}</ref> On September 14, 1997, the Redskins played in their new stadium for the first time and beat the [[1997 Arizona Cardinals season|Arizona Cardinals]], 19–13 in overtime.<ref name="nineties" /> On November 23, 1997, they played the [[1997 New York Giants season|New York Giants]] and the result was a 7–7 tie, the Redskins first tie game since the [[1971 Washington Redskins season|1971 season]]. They would finish [[1997 Washington Redskins season|1997]] {{Win-loss record|w=8|l=7|t=1}} and would miss the [[1997–98 NFL playoffs|playoffs]] for the fifth season in a row. Cornerback [[Darrell Green]] would break Monte Coleman's record for games played with the team during the season.<ref name="nineties" /> The [[1998 Washington Redskins season|1998 season]] started with a seven-game losing streak,<ref>{{Cite web |title=1998 Washington Redskins |url=http://www.jt-sw.com/football/pro/results.nsf/Teams/1998-was |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080516043224/http://www.jt-sw.com/football/pro/results.nsf/Teams/1998-was |archive-date=May 16, 2008 |access-date=April 8, 2008 |publisher=Football @ JT-SW}}</ref> and the Redskins finished with a {{Win-loss record|w=6|l=10}} record.<ref>{{Cite news |title=Washington Redskins 1998 Season Recap |newspaper=[[The Washington Post]] |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/sports/redskins/longterm/1998/98recap.htm}}</ref>

===Daniel Snyder era (1999–2023)===
[[File:Dan Snyder Washington Commanders Reveal (51858871386) (cropped).jpg|left|thumb|[[Daniel Snyder]], the team's owner from 1999 until 2023, is considered to be one of the worst owners in the history of professional sports.]]
On May 25, 1999, Cooke sold the Redskins to local businessman [[Daniel Snyder]] for $800 million after being unable to raise sufficient funds to keep the team.<ref name="nineties" /><ref>{{Cite web |last=Sandomir |first=Richard |date=April 27, 1999 |title=Redskins Are Sold For $800 Million |url=https://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9C04E3D9153DF934A15757C0A96F958260 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200904091401/https://www.nytimes.com/1999/04/27/sports/plus-pro-football-washington-redskins-are-sold-for-800-million.html |archive-date=September 4, 2020 |access-date=April 5, 2008 |work=The New York Times}}</ref> Snyder sold the naming rights to Jack Kent Cooke Stadium to [[FedEx]] in November 1999, becoming [[FedExField]].<ref name="nineties" />

In Snyder's first [[1999 NFL season|season]] as owner, the Redskins went {{Win-loss record|w=10|l=6}},<ref name="seasonresults" /> including a four-game winning streak early in the season,<ref>{{Cite web |title=1999 Washington Redskins |url=http://www.jt-sw.com/football/pro/results.nsf/Teams/1999-was |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080516030422/http://www.jt-sw.com/football/pro/results.nsf/Teams/1999-was |archive-date=May 16, 2008 |access-date=April 8, 2008 |publisher=Football @ JT-SW}}</ref> and made it to the playoffs for the first time in [[Norv Turner]]'s career (and the first time for the Redskins since [[1992 Washington Redskins season|1992]]) in the final game of the season (on January 2, 2000, against the [[1999 Miami Dolphins season|Dolphins]]). Running back [[Stephen Davis (American football)|Stephen Davis]] rushed for a then franchise record 1,405 yards and quarterback [[Brad Johnson (American football)|Brad Johnson]] completed a then franchise record 316 passes and threw for more than 4,000 yards in regular play that season.<ref name="twothousand">{{Cite web |title=The 2000s–History by the Decades |url=https://www.commanders.com/team/history/2000-by-the-decade |access-date=May 13, 2022 |website=Commanders.com }}</ref> They then defeated the [[Detroit Lions]] in the first round of the [[1999–2000 NFL playoffs|playoffs]], but lost to the [[1999 Tampa Bay Buccaneers season|Buccaneers]], 14–13.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Wild Card - Detroit Lions at Washington Redskins - January 8th, 2000 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200001080was.htm |access-date=July 31, 2024 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Divisional Round - Washington Redskins at Tampa Bay Buccaneers - January 15th, 2000 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200001150tam.htm |access-date=July 31, 2024 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref>

The [[2000 NFL season|2000 season]] started with the selection of future [[Pro Bowl]]er [[Chris Samuels]] and the tumultuous [[LaVar Arrington]] in the [[2000 NFL draft]] and included five consecutive wins in the first half of the season.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2000 Washington Redskins |url=http://www.jt-sw.com/football/pro/results.nsf/Teams/2000-was |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080515233631/http://www.jt-sw.com/football/pro/results.nsf/Teams/2000-was |archive-date=May 15, 2008 |access-date=April 8, 2008 |publisher=Football @ JT-SW}}</ref> However, they ended up going {{Win-loss record|w=7|l=6}} with Turner being fired as head coach prior to the end of the season.<ref name="twothousand" /> [[Terry Robiskie]] was named interim coach to finish out the season,<ref name="twothousand" /> which ended with an {{Win-loss record|w=8|l=8}} record.<ref name="seasonresults" /> During the final game of the season, [[Larry Centers]] became the NFL's all-time leader in receptions by a [[running back]] with 685.<ref name="twothousand" />

On January 3, 2001, the Redskins hired former [[Cleveland Browns]] and [[Kansas City Chiefs]] head coach [[Marty Schottenheimer]] for the same role.<ref name="twothousand" /> The [[2001 Washington Redskins season|2001 season]] began with a loss to the [[2001 San Diego Chargers season|San Diego Chargers]], 30–3, two days before the [[September 11, 2001, attacks]]. On September 13, 2001, the Redskins announced the establishment of the Redskins Relief Fund to help families of the victims of the attack at the Pentagon. During the course of the season, the Redskins raised more than $700,000.<ref name="twothousand" /> They finished the season with an {{Win-loss record|w=8|l=8}} record<ref name="seasonresults" /> and Schottenheimer was fired after the final game. Snyder later said in a 2013 interview that he was fired due to his over-controlling nature.<ref>{{Cite news |title=DC Sports Bog |newspaper=The Washington Post |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/dc-sports-bog/wp/2013/01/29/dan-snyder-says-he-fired-vinny-cerrato-for-letting-him-hire-jim-zorn/ |url-status=live |access-date=September 18, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151007001127/https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/dc-sports-bog/wp/2013/01/29/dan-snyder-says-he-fired-vinny-cerrato-for-letting-him-hire-jim-zorn/ |archive-date=October 7, 2015}}</ref>

On January 14, 2002, Snyder hired [[Florida Gators football|Florida Gators]] coach [[Steve Spurrier]],<ref name="twothousand" /> the Redskins' fifth head coach in 10 years. They finished with a {{Win-loss record|w=7|l=9}} record, their first losing season in four years.<ref name="seasonresults" /> A bittersweet moment during the season occurred on December 29, when [[Darrell Green]] concluded his 20th and final season as the Redskins defeated the [[2002 Dallas Cowboys season|Cowboys]] 20–14 at FedExField. During his 20 seasons, he set an NFL record for consecutive seasons with at least one interception (19) and a Redskins team record for regular-season games played (295) and started (258).<ref name="twothousand" /> The Redskins finished the [[2003 Washington Redskins season|2003 season]] with a {{Win-loss record|w=5|l=11}} record, their worst since [[1994 Washington Redskins season|1994]].<ref name="seasonresults" /> After two mediocre years, Spurrier resigned after the 2003 season with three years left on his contract.<ref name="i844">{{cite web | last=White | first=Joseph | title=Amid confusion, Spurrier resigns as Redskins coach | website=Gainesville Sun | date=December 30, 2003 | url=https://www.gainesville.com/story/news/2003/12/30/amid-confusion-spurrier-resigns-as-redskins-coach/31654345007/ | access-date=July 31, 2024}}</ref>

For the [[2004 Washington Redskins season|2004 season]], Snyder hired former coach [[Joe Gibbs]] to return as head coach and team president.<ref>{{Cite web |date=January 7, 2004 |title=Gibbs' deal more lucrative than Spurrier's |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=1702079 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060613211933/http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=1702079 |archive-date=June 13, 2006 |access-date=December 27, 2007 |website=ESPN.com|agency=Associated Press}}</ref> Gibbs' return to the franchise did not pay instant dividends as the Redskins finished the 2004 season with a record of {{Win-loss record|w=6|l=10}}.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2004 Washington Redskins Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/was/2004.htm |access-date=July 31, 2024 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> Despite an impressive defense, the team struggled offensively. Quarterback [[Mark Brunell]]—an off-season acquisition from the [[Jacksonville Jaguars]]—struggled in his first season, and was replaced midway through the season by backup [[Patrick Ramsey]]. On the other hand, some of Gibbs' other new signings, such as cornerback [[Shawn Springs]] and [[linebacker]] [[Marcus Washington]], did very well. The Redskins also selected [[Sean Taylor]] during the first draft in Gibbs' return.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2004 Washington Redskins Draftees |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/was/2004_draft.htm |access-date=July 31, 2024 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref>

The [[2005 Washington Redskins season|2005 season]] started with three wins,<ref name="twothousandfive">{{Cite web |title=2005 Washington Redskins |url=http://www.jt-sw.com/football/pro/results.nsf/Teams/2005-was |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080516030736/http://www.jt-sw.com/football/pro/results.nsf/Teams/2005-was |archive-date=May 16, 2008 |access-date=April 8, 2008 |work=Football @ JT-SW}}</ref> including a win on September 19 against the [[2005 Dallas Cowboys season|Dallas Cowboys]]. Dallas led 13–0 with less than four minutes left when Brunell threw a {{convert|39|yd|adj=on}} touchdown pass to Moss on a fourth-down play. Then, with 2:44 left, Brunell connected with Moss again on a {{convert|70|yd|adj=on}} touchdown pass and [[Nick Novak]] kicked the game-winning extra point. It was the Redskins' first victory at [[Texas Stadium]] since [[1995 Washington Redskins season|1995]].<ref name="twothousand" /> They then fell into a slump, losing six of the next eight games which included three straight losses in November,<ref name="twothousandfive" /> and their playoff chances looked bleak. On December 18, 2005, the Redskins beat Cowboys, 35–7, which marked the first time since 1995 that the Redskins swept the season series with Dallas.<ref name="twothousand" /> The Redskins clinched their first playoff berth since [[1999 Washington Redskins season|1999]].<ref name="twothousand" /> The game also culminated impressive season performances by individuals. Portis set a team mark for most rushing yards in a single season with {{convert|1516|yd}}, and Moss set a team record for most receiving yards in a single season with {{convert|1483|yd}}, breaking [[Bobby Mitchell]]'s previous record set in [[1963 Washington Redskins season|1963]].<ref name="twothousand" /> Also, [[Chris Cooley]]'s 71 receptions broke [[Jerry Smith (tight end)|Jerry Smith]]'s season record for a Redskins tight end. In the first round of the [[2005–06 NFL playoffs|playoffs]], the Redskins met the [[2005 Tampa Bay Buccaneers season|Buccaneers]].<ref name="twothousand" /> The Redskins won 17–10,<ref name="playoffs" /> after taking an early 14–0 lead, which they thought they lost until replay showed that a touchdown, which would have tied the game, was an incomplete pass. In that game, the Redskins broke the record for fewest offensive yards (120) gained in a playoff victory, with one of their two touchdowns being from a defensive run after a fumble recovery. The following weekend, they played the [[2005 Seattle Seahawks season|Seahawks]], who defeated the Redskins 20–10,<ref name="playoffs" /><ref name="twothousand" /> ending their hopes of reaching their first NFC Championship Game since [[1991–92 NFL playoffs#NFC: Washington Redskins 41, Detroit Lions 10|1991]].<ref name="playoffs" />

The first major move of the 2006 off-season was the hiring of [[Kansas City Chiefs]]' offensive coordinator [[Al Saunders]] as [[offensive coordinator]]. Gibbs also added former [[Buffalo Bills]] defensive coordinator [[Jerry Gray]] to his staff as secondary/cornerbacks coach and lost quarterbacks coach [[Bill Musgrave]] to the [[Atlanta Falcons|Falcons]]. The Redskins also picked up future starters [[Rocky McIntosh]], [[Anthony Montgomery (American football)|Anthony Montgomery]], [[Reed Doughty]], and [[Kedric Golston]] in the [[2006 NFL draft]]. After winning only three of the first nine games,<ref name="twothousandsix">{{Cite web |title=2006 Washington Redskins |url=http://www.jt-sw.com/football/pro/results.nsf/Teams/2006-was |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080127121235/http://www.jt-sw.com/football/pro/results.nsf/Teams/2006-was |archive-date=January 27, 2008 |access-date=April 8, 2008 |work=Football @ JT-SW}}</ref> Gibbs benched quarterback Brunell for former first-round draft pick [[Jason Campbell]]. After losing his first game as a starter to [[2006 Tampa Bay Buccaneers season|Tampa Bay]], Campbell got his first NFL victory against the [[2006 Carolina Panthers season|Carolina Panthers]], bringing the Redskins out of a three-game losing streak.<ref name="twothousandsix" /> The highlight of the season happened on November 5, and concluded with one of the most exciting endings in the history of the [[Cowboys–Redskins rivalry]]. Tied 19–19, [[Troy Vincent]] blocked a last-second field goal attempt by [[2006 Dallas Cowboys season|Dallas]] that would have given them the win. Sean Taylor picked up the ball and ran {{convert|30|yd}}, breaking tackles along the way. It was thought that the game would then go in overtime, however because of a defensive {{convert|15|yd|adj=on}} face mask penalty, the Redskins would get an untimed down. Novak kicked a {{convert|47|yd|adj=on}} field goal, giving Washington a 22–19 victory.<ref name="twothousand" /> However, the Redskins finished the year with a {{Win-loss record|w=5|l=11}} record, which resulted in them being last in the [[NFC East]]. This marked the second losing season of Joe Gibbs' second term as head coach with the Redskins, compared to the one losing season he had in his first 12-year tenure as head coach.
[[File:Sean Taylor.jpg|thumb|[[Sean Taylor]], the team's first-round draft choice in 2004, died after being shot by home invaders in 2007. His jersey number 21 was later retired by the team.]]
The Redskins began the [[2007 Washington Redskins season|2007 season]] by "winning ugly" starting the season off 2–0. The Redskins kept winning and losing close games, the only exception to this a 34–3 rout of the [[2007 Detroit Lions season|Detroit Lions]]. The Redskins continued to win ugly and lose ugly to be 5–3 at the halfway mark. However, the Redskins would begin to collapse. The team lost their next three games to fall to 5–6. On Monday, November 26, Redskins safety Sean Taylor was shot by home intruders early in the morning in his Miami home. The next morning, Taylor died from severe blood loss.<ref>{{Cite web |last1=Bell |first1=Jarrett |last2=Wood |first2=Skip |last3=Mihoces |first3=Gary |last4=Leinwand |first4=Donna |date=November 28, 2007 |title=Death of Redskins' Sean Taylor stuns team, NFL |url=https://www.usatoday.com/sports/football/nfl/redskins/2007-11-27-taylor-death_N.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091223080348/http://www.usatoday.com/sports/football/nfl/redskins/2007-11-27-taylor-death_N.htm |archive-date=December 23, 2009 |access-date=May 27, 2010 |work=USA Today}}</ref> However, the Redskins rebounded to finish 9–7 and clinch the final [[2007–08 NFL playoffs|playoff]] spot in the NFC. Washington trailed 13–0 entering the 4th quarter to the [[2007 Seattle Seahawks season|Seattle Seahawks]] in the wild-card round, but rallied to take a 14–13 lead, but Redskins kicker [[Shaun Suisham]] missed a field goal later in the game, and the Seahawks scored on the next drive and converted the [[two-point conversion]]. To close the game, Todd Collins threw two interceptions, each returned for a touchdown, and the Redskins fell 35–14.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Wild Card - Washington Redskins at Seattle Seahawks - January 5th, 2008 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200801050sea.htm |access-date=July 31, 2024 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref>

After Joe Gibbs announced his retirement following the 2007 season, [[Jim Zorn]] was hired as head coach and brought in a [[West Coast Offense]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=January 8, 2008 |title=Gibbs retires as coach, president of Redskins |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=3186165 |access-date=July 31, 2024 |website=ESPN.com|agency=Associated Press |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=February 9, 2008 |title=Skins introduce hopeful Zorn as head coach |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=3238678 |access-date=July 31, 2024 |website=ESPN.com|agency=Associated Press |language=en}}</ref> The [[2008 Washington Redskins season|2008 season]] started well, as the Redskins started the season 6–2. Furthermore, Redskins RB [[Clinton Portis]] led the NFL in rushing yards.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2008 NFL Rushing |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2008/rushing.htm |access-date=July 31, 2024 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> However, things turned for the worse in early November, when they were routed 23–6 by the [[2008 Pittsburgh Steelers season|Pittsburgh Steelers]] and Portis' injuries finally caught up to him. The Redskins continued to struggle, falling all the way to 7–7, with their only win during that six-week period being a 3-point victory of the then-2–8 [[2008 Seattle Seahawks season|Seattle Seahawks]]. The Redskins managed to upset the [[2008 Philadelphia Eagles season|Philadelphia Eagles]] in Week 16, but were eliminated from playoff contention. The team's fortunes continued to slide in [[2009 Washington Redskins season|2009]], as they finished {{Win-loss record|w=4|l=12}}.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2009 Washington Redskins Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees, Injury Reports |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/was/2009.htm |access-date=July 31, 2024 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> Zorn was fired and replaced by [[Mike Shanahan]] after the season.<ref name="z496">{{cite web | last=Battista | first=Judy | title=Redskins Meet With Shanahan After Firing Zorn | website=The New York Times | date=January 5, 2010 | url=https://www.nytimes.com/2010/01/05/sports/football/05nfl.html | access-date=July 31, 2024}}</ref><ref name="m554">{{cite web | last=Schefter | first=Adam | title=Shanahan signs 5-year contract with Redskins | website=ESPN.com | date=January 6, 2010 | url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=4799532 | access-date=July 31, 2024}}</ref>

On April 4, the Redskins acquired quarterback [[Donovan McNabb]] in a trade from the rival [[Philadelphia Eagles]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=April 5, 2010 |title=Eagles trade McNabb to Redskins for picks |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=5055346 |access-date=July 31, 2024 |website=ESPN.com|agency=Associated Press |language=en}}</ref> However, the Redskins struggled to a {{Win-loss record|w=6|l=10}} finish, once again 4th place in the division.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2010 Washington Redskins Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees, Injury Reports |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/was/2010.htm |access-date=July 31, 2024 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> The McNabb era came to an abrupt end when he was traded to Minnesota in August 2011.<ref name="b045">{{cite web | title=Vikings deal for McNabb | website=The Augusta Chronicle | date=July 28, 2011 | url=https://www.augustachronicle.com/story/sports/nfl/2011/07/28/vikings-deal-mcnabb/14531689007/ | access-date=July 31, 2024}}</ref> After cutting the injury-rattled Clinton Portis, the Redskins had no important offensive players left except for Santana Moss. Mike Shanahan surprised most observers by his decision to name [[John Beck (gridiron football)|John Beck]], an obscure free-agent quarterback, as the starter.<ref name="s671">{{cite web | last=Shiferaw | first=Daniel | title=Mike Shanahan Talks About His Decision To Name John Beck Washington Redskins Starting Quarterback | website=SB Nation DC | date=October 19, 2011 | url=https://dc.sbnation.com/washington-redskins/2011/10/19/2501322/washington-redskins-mike-shanahan-john-beck-named-starter | access-date=July 31, 2024}}</ref> However, Shanahan suddenly reversed direction by naming veteran backup [[Rex Grossman]] to the starting position.<ref name="q303">{{cite web | title=Shanahan confirms Grossman is Redskins' starter | website=NBC Sports | date=September 5, 2011 | url=https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/shanahan-confirms-grossman-is-redskins-starter | access-date=July 31, 2024}}</ref> In Week 1, Grossman threw for 305 yards and two touchdown passes as the Redskins crushed the Giants 28–14, ending a six-game losing streak against that team. The Washington Redskins started the season 2–0, but then struggled to a {{Win-loss record|w=5|l=11}} finish, however, they managed to win both meetings over the eventual [[Super Bowl XLVI|Super Bowl]] champion [[2011 New York Giants season|New York Giants]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=2011 Washington Redskins Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees, Injury Reports |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/was/2011.htm |access-date=July 31, 2024 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref>
[[File:RG3 2014.jpg|thumb|left|Quarterback [[Robert Griffin III]], the team's first-round draft choice in 2012, was named [[Offensive Rookie of the Year]] after leading the team to their first division title since 1999.]]
In [[2012 Washington Redskins season|2012]], the Redskins traded several high draft picks to the [[St. Louis Rams]] in order to take Baylor quarterback [[Robert Griffin III]] second overall in the [[2012 NFL draft]].<ref name="z551">{{cite web | last=Schefter | first=Adam | title=Redskins acquire No. 2 pick from Rams | website=ESPN.com | date=March 10, 2012 | url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/7668243/washington-redskins-acquire-no-2-overall-pick-st-louis-rams | access-date=July 31, 2024}}</ref><ref name="o642">{{cite magazine | last=Nieves | first=Alex | title=A look back at the infamous RGIII trade | magazine=Sports Illustrated | date=January 11, 2016 | url=https://www.si.com/nfl/2016/01/11/washington-redskins-st-louis-rams-robert-griffin-trade-players | access-date=July 31, 2024}}</ref> Although the need for a franchise quarterback was obvious, many journalists had doubts about the value of giving up a lot for a single player. In the opening game of the season, Griffin threw for 320 yards and two touchdown passes in a 40–32 victory over the [[2012 New Orleans Saints season|New Orleans Saints]] to give the team its highest-scoring game since 2005. The Redskins struggled to a 3–6 start, but in Week 11, the Redskins would host the struggling Philadelphia Eagles. Griffin would have one of the best games of his career to date, as the Redskins won 31–6 with long touchdowns to Santana Moss and Aldrick Robinson. The Redskins would win their next 6 games after that, including the crucial final game of the season against the Cowboys, which would clinch the division for and send the Redskins to the playoffs. The Redskins hosted the [[2012 Seattle Seahawks season|Seattle Seahawks]] in the Wild Card round but lost 24–14.<ref name="j564">{{cite web | title=Seahawks come back from 14-0 deficit to beat Redskins; RG3 hurt | website=NFL.com | date=January 6, 2013 | url=https://www.nfl.com/news/seahawks-come-back-from-14-0-deficit-to-beat-redskins-rg3-hurt-0ap1000000123322 | access-date=July 31, 2024}}</ref>

Hopes were high for a repeat division title in [[2013 Washington Redskins season|2013]]. However, these hopes were in vain, as poor play and controversy stirred during the entire year, leading to a {{Win-loss record|w=3|l=13}} record.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2013 Washington Redskins Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees, Injury Reports |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/was/2013.htm |access-date=July 31, 2024 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> Even though most players had a down year compared to 2012, [[Pierre Garçon]] had his greatest season statistically yet. Garcon broke [[Art Monk]]'s 29-year-old franchise record for catches in a single season. Garcon had 113 catches total, which broke Monk's 106 catches in [[1984 Washington Redskins season|1984]] by seven.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Maske |first=Mark |date=December 22, 2013 |title=Pierre Garçon breaks Art Monk's Redskins record for catches in a season |newspaper=[[The Washington Post]] |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/football-insider/wp/2013/12/22/pierre-garcon-breaks-art-monks-redskins-record-for-catches-in-a-season/ |url-status=live |access-date=February 12, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131229134644/http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/football-insider/wp/2013/12/22/pierre-garcon-breaks-art-monks-redskins-record-for-catches-in-a-season/ |archive-date=December 29, 2013}}</ref> The Redskins fired Shanahan and most of his staff after the season.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Pelissero |first=Tom |date=December 30, 2013 |title=Reskins Fire Coach Mike Shanahan |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/redskins/2013/12/30/mike-shanahan-fired-washington/4248213/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131231033412/http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/redskins/2013/12/30/mike-shanahan-fired-washington/4248213/ |archive-date=December 31, 2013 |access-date=December 30, 2013 |work=USA Today}}</ref>

On January 9, [[2014 Washington Redskins season|2014]], the Redskins hired [[Jay Gruden]] as their head coach. Gruden became the eighth head coach of the team since Daniel Snyder purchased the franchise in 1999.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Maske |first=Mark |date=January 9, 2014 |title=Jay Gruden hired as Redskins coach |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/redskins/jay-gruden-hired-as-redskins-coach/2014/01/09/084fab48-7938-11e3-8963-b4b654bcc9b2_story.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180518125942/https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/redskins/jay-gruden-hired-as-redskins-coach/2014/01/09/084fab48-7938-11e3-8963-b4b654bcc9b2_story.html |archive-date=May 18, 2018 |access-date=September 18, 2017 |newspaper=Washington Post}}</ref> The Redskins struggled throughout the season, having three different quarterbacks start games, amounting to a {{Win-loss record|w=4|l=12}} record.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2014 Washington Redskins Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees, Injury Reports |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/was/2014.htm |access-date=August 10, 2024 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> Defensive coordinator [[Jim Haslett]] was fired at the end of the season.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Jones |first=Mike |date=December 31, 2014 |title=Jim Haslett out as Redskins defensive coordinator |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/redskins/jim-haslett-out-as-redskins-defensive-coordinator/2014/12/31/bed7d63e-9119-11e4-a412-4b735edc7175_story.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150105112850/http://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/redskins/jim-haslett-out-as-redskins-defensive-coordinator/2014/12/31/bed7d63e-9119-11e4-a412-4b735edc7175_story.html |archive-date=January 5, 2015 |access-date=January 7, 2015 |newspaper=[[The Washington Post]]}}</ref>

In [[2015 Washington Redskins season|2015]], the Redskins hired [[Scot McCloughan]] to be their general manager, with [[Bruce Allen (American football)|Bruce Allen]] serving as team president.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Orr |first=Conor |date=January 7, 2015 |title=Washington Redskins make Scot McCloughan GM |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/washington-redskins-make-scot-mccloughan-gm-0ap3000000454845 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150108002100/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000454845/article/washington-redskins-make-scot-mccloughan-gm |archive-date=January 8, 2015 |access-date=February 1, 2022 |website=NFL.com}}</ref> In October 2015, the Redskins had their largest comeback win in franchise history, coming back to win against the [[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]] 31–30 after being down 0–24 in the second quarter.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Clarke |first=Liz |date=October 25, 2015 |title=Kirk Cousins powers Redskins' rally from down 24 to beat Bucs, 31–30 |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/redskins/kirk-cousins-powers-redskins-rally-from-down-24-to-beat-bucs-31-30/2015/10/25/c5861408-7b53-11e5-b575-d8dcfedb4ea1_story.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151026205732/https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/redskins/kirk-cousins-powers-redskins-rally-from-down-24-to-beat-bucs-31-30/2015/10/25/c5861408-7b53-11e5-b575-d8dcfedb4ea1_story.html |archive-date=October 26, 2015 |access-date=October 25, 2015 |newspaper=[[The Washington Post]]}}</ref> The Redskins clinched the NFC East division title on December 26, when they beat the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 16, 38–24.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ortega |first=Mark |date=December 26, 2015 |title=Redskins clinch NFC East with banner win over Eagles |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/redskins-clinch-nfc-east-with-banner-win-over-eagles-0ap3000000609396 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151227070828/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000609396/article/redskins-clinch-nfc-east-with-win-over-eagles |archive-date=December 27, 2015 |access-date=February 1, 2022 |website=NFL.com}}</ref> The division title was their third since Snyder took over ownership of the team, and was the first since the [[1999 Washington Redskins season|1999 season]] to be clinched before Week 17. The Redskins hosted the [[Green Bay Packers]] in the Wild Card round on January 10, 2016, but lost 35–18, ending their 2015 season.<ref>{{Cite news |last=McMillan |first=Keith |date=January 10, 2016 |title=Packers at Redskins game day: Green Bay ends Washington's season, 35–18 |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/football-insider/wp/2016/01/09/packers-at-redskins-game-day-thread/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160110094711/https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/football-insider/wp/2016/01/09/packers-at-redskins-game-day-thread/ |archive-date=January 10, 2016 |access-date=January 11, 2016 |newspaper=[[The Washington Post]]}}</ref> [[Kirk Cousins]], who took over as starting quarterback in the preseason, finished the season with career highs in touchdowns (29), yards (4,166), and completion percentage (69.8%). His completion percentage led the league, while his 29 touchdowns tied him for second on the franchise single-season list.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Kirk Cousins Stats, Height, Weight, Position, Draft, College |website=[[Pro-Football-Reference.com]] |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/C/CousKi00.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180404184306/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/C/CousKi00.htm |archive-date=April 4, 2018 |access-date=August 10, 2024 |language=en}}</ref>

The team's offense in [[2016 Washington Redskins season|2016]] set several franchise records, including having over 6,000 total net yards, which was only the third time in franchise history the team had accomplished that.<ref name="2016 offensive records">{{Cite web |last=Lewis Jr. |first=Lake |date=January 3, 2017 |title=2016 Redskins offense rewrote franchise record books |url=http://redskinswire.usatoday.com/2017/01/03/2016-redskins-offense-rewrote-franchise-record-books/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170106102653/http://redskinswire.usatoday.com/2017/01/03/2016-redskins-offense-rewrote-franchise-record-books/ |archive-date=January 6, 2017 |access-date=January 6, 2017 |website=USA Today}}</ref> Quarterback Kirk Cousins also set single-season team records in attempts, completions, and passing yards, breaking many of his records he had previously set in 2015.<ref name="2016 offensive records" /> [[DeSean Jackson]], Pierre Garçon, [[Jamison Crowder]], [[Robert Kelley (American football)|Robert Kelley]], [[Chris Thompson (running back)|Chris Thompson]], [[Jordan Reed]], [[Vernon Davis]], and [[Matt Jones (running back)|Matt Jones]] all finished the season with at least 500 yards from scrimmage, tying the [[2011 New Orleans Saints]] for the most in a single season in NFL history.<ref name="2016 offensive records" /> Despite the numerous records set, the Redskins missed the playoffs, losing 19–10 in a "win and in" situation against the New York Giants in the final week of the season.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Reyes |first=Lorenzo |date=January 1, 2017 |title=Giants knock Redskins out of playoff contention |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/giants/2017/01/01/washington-redskins-new-york-nfc-east-playoffs/96070204/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180518061351/https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/giants/2017/01/01/washington-redskins-new-york-nfc-east-playoffs/96070204/ |archive-date=May 18, 2018 |access-date=January 6, 2017 |website=USA Today}}</ref> However, the Redskins still finished the season with a record of {{Win-loss record|w=8|l=7|t=1}}, giving the team their first consecutive winning seasons in nearly 20 years.<ref>{{Cite web |date=January 1, 2017 |title=First back-to-back winning record for Redskins since 1997 |url=http://www.csnmidatlantic.com/washington-redskins/first-back-back-winning-record-redskins-1997 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170106114718/http://www.csnmidatlantic.com/washington-redskins/first-back-back-winning-record-redskins-1997 |archive-date=January 6, 2017 |access-date=January 6, 2017 |website=CSN Mid-Atlantic}}</ref> In contrast with the record setting offense, the team's defense had a poor season, finishing 29 out of 32 teams in total defense, which led to the firing of [[defensive coordinator]] [[Joe Barry]], as well as three of his assistants.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Wilson |first=Ryan |title=Redskins fire four coaches, including defensive coordinator Joe Barry |url=http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/redskins-fire-four-coaches-including-defensive-coordinator-joe-barry/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170106105303/http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/redskins-fire-four-coaches-including-defensive-coordinator-joe-barry/ |archive-date=January 6, 2017 |access-date=January 6, 2017 |work=CBS Sports|date=January 5, 2017 }}</ref> In [[2017 Washington Redskins season|2017]], Cousins had his third straight season with 4,000 passing yards while once again playing under the franchise tag.<ref name="v385">{{cite web | last=Keim | first=John | title=Cousins to play on tag; called 'Kurt' by Allen | website=ESPN.com | date=July 17, 2017 | url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/20089114/kirk-cousins-washington-redskins-become-first-qb-repeat-franchise-tag-player | access-date=August 10, 2024}}</ref> For the second straight season, the Redskins missed the playoffs, finishing 7–9.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2017 Washington Redskins Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees, Injury Reports |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/was/2017.htm |access-date=August 10, 2024 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref>

During the [[2018 Washington Redskins season|2018]] offseason, the Redskins traded for quarterback [[Alex Smith]] to replace Kirk Cousins as he left for the Minnesota Vikings in free agency.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Knoblauch |first=Austin |date=January 30, 2018 |title=Kansas City Chiefs trading QB Alex Smith to Redskins |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/kansas-city-chiefs-trading-qb-alex-smith-to-redskins-0ap3000000912606 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191019014835/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000912606/article/kansas-city-chiefs-trading-qb-alex-smith-to-redskins |archive-date=October 19, 2019 |access-date=February 1, 2022 |website=[[NFL.com]]}}</ref> Despite early success starting the season 6–3, their best start since [[2008 Washington Redskins season|2008]], the team finished the season {{Win-loss record|w=1|l=6}} due to injuries. In a game against the Houston Texans on November 18, 2018, Smith suffered a [[compound fracture|compound]] and [[spiral fracture]] to his [[tibia]] and [[fibula]] in his right leg when he was sacked by [[Kareem Jackson]] and [[J. J. Watt]] which forced him to miss the rest of the season.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Nathan |first=Alec |date=November 18, 2018 |title=Alex Smith to Undergo Season-Ending Surgery After Suffering Gruesome Leg Injury |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2673518-alex-smith-carted-off-vs-texans-after-suffering-gruesome-ankle-injury |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191019014835/https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2673518-alex-smith-carted-off-vs-texans-after-suffering-gruesome-ankle-injury |archive-date=October 19, 2019 |access-date=October 19, 2019 |website=[[Bleacher Report]]}}</ref> This led to [[Colt McCoy]], [[Mark Sanchez]], and [[Josh Johnson (quarterback)|Josh Johnson]] starting games in the second half of the season.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2018 Washington Redskins Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees, Injury Reports |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/was/2018.htm |access-date=August 10, 2024 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> The team finished at {{Win-loss record|w=7|l=9}} and missed the playoffs for the third consecutive year, with a league-high 25 players on injured reserve.<ref>{{Cite web |last=El-Bashir |first=Tarik |date=December 8, 2018 |title='I've never seen anything like this', the frustrating injury situation in Washington |url=https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/702157/2018/12/08/ive-never-seen-anything-like-this-the-frustrating-injury-situation-in-washington/ |access-date=August 10, 2024 |website=The New York Times |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=2018 NFL Standings & Team Stats |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2018/index.htm |access-date=August 10, 2024 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref>

Due to Smith's injury, the Redskins acquired [[Case Keenum]] from the [[Denver Broncos]] in the [[2019 Washington Redskins season|2019]] offseason, and drafted [[Dwayne Haskins]] from [[Ohio State Buckeyes football|Ohio State]] in the [[2019 NFL draft]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Teope |first=Herbie |date=March 7, 2019 |title=Broncos trade QB Case Keenum to Redskins |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/broncos-trade-qb-case-keenum-to-redskins-0ap3000001021456 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200418161520/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001021456/article/broncos-trade-qb-case-keenum-to-redskins |archive-date=April 18, 2020 |access-date=February 1, 2022 |website=NFL.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Homler |first=Ryan |date=April 25, 2019 |title=Redskins draft QB Dwayne Haskins with No. 15 pick in 2019 NFL Draft |url=https://www.nbcsports.com/washington/redskins/redskins-draft-qb-dwayne-haskins-no-15-pick-2019-nfl-draft |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200211141115/https://www.nbcsports.com/washington/redskins/redskins-draft-qb-dwayne-haskins-no-15-pick-2019-nfl-draft |archive-date=February 11, 2020 |access-date=October 19, 2019}}</ref> With a league worst 0–5 start to the season, tying with the [[2019 Cincinnati Bengals season|Cincinnati Bengals]], and their worst start since [[2001 Washington Redskins season|2001]], the Redskins fired Gruden on October 7, 2019,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Gordon |first=Grant |date=October 7, 2019 |title=Redskins fire head coach Jay Gruden after 0–5 start |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/redskins-fire-head-coach-jay-gruden-after-0-5-start-0ap3000001063290 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191014084224/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001063290/article/redskins-fire-head-coach-jay-gruden-after-05-start |archive-date=October 14, 2019 |access-date=February 1, 2022 |website=NFL.com}}</ref> with offensive line coach [[Bill Callahan (American football coach)|Bill Callahan]] serving as the interim head coach for the rest of the season.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Stackpole |first=Kyle |date=October 7, 2019 |title=Redskins Name Bill Callahan Interim Head Coach |url=https://www.commanders.com/news/redskins-name-bill-callahan-head-coach |url-status=dead |access-date=February 2, 2022 |website=Commanders.com |archive-date=October 7, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191007190139/https://www.redskins.com/news/redskins-name-bill-callahan-head-coach }}</ref> Gruden finished as the longest-tenured head coach in the Snyder era with six seasons, a 35–49–1 regular season record and one playoff appearance. The Redskins finished the season at {{Win-loss record|w=3|l=13}}, with victories over the [[2019 Detroit Lions season|Detroit Lions]] and [[2019 Carolina Panthers season|Carolina Panthers]], and missed the playoffs for the fourth straight year.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2019 Washington Redskins Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees, Injury Reports |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/was/2019.htm |access-date=July 31, 2024 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> The record matched their worst since [[2013 Washington Redskins season|2013]] and was the second worst of any team that season.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2019 NFL Standings & Team Stats |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2019/index.htm |access-date=July 31, 2024 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref>

==== Rebranding and workplace culture investigations (2020–2023) ====
[[File:WAS at PHI Jan 2021 D50 3946 (50805449137) (cropped).jpg|thumb|After recovering from a leg fracture sustained in 2018 and subseqent life-threatening infections, quarterback [[Alex Smith]] helped lead the team to a NFC East division title in 2020 and earned the [[NFL Comeback Player of the Year]] award.]]

The team underwent several changes in [[2020 Washington Football Team season|2020]], including retiring the Redskins name and logo and hiring former [[Carolina Panthers]] head coach [[Ron Rivera]] in the same role, as well as naming [[Jason Wright]] as team president, the first black person named to that position in NFL history.<ref>{{Cite news |date=January 1, 2020 |title=Redskins officially hire Ron Rivera; Jack Del Rio for DC |work=NFL.com |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/redskins-officially-hire-ron-rivera-jack-del-rio-for-dc-0ap3000001093769 |url-status=live |access-date=September 7, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200719100448/https://www.nfl.com/news/redskins-officially-hire-ron-rivera-jack-del-rio-for-dc-0ap3000001093769 |archive-date=July 19, 2020}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Keim |first=John |date=January 1, 2020 |title=Redskins officially name Ron Rivera coach, make Jack Del Rio DC |work=ESPN |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/28403414/redskins-officially-name-ron-rivera-coach-make-jack-del-rio-dc |url-status=live |access-date=January 1, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200101160157/https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/28403414/redskins-officially-name-ron-rivera-coach-make-jack-del-rio-dc |archive-date=January 1, 2020}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=August 17, 2020 |title=Washington Football Team Appoints Jason Wright as President |work=Commanders.com |url=https://www.commanders.com/news/washington-football-team-appoints-jason-wright-as-president |url-status=dead |access-date=February 2, 2022 |archive-date=August 18, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200818182638/https://www.washingtonfootball.com/news/washington-football-team-appoints-jason-wright-as-president }}</ref> Some notable members of Rivera's staff include former [[Jacksonville Jaguars]] and [[Oakland Raiders]] head coach [[Jack Del Rio]] as defensive coordinator and [[Scott Turner (American football coach)|Scott Turner]], the son of former Redskins head coach [[Norv Turner]], as offensive coordinator.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Shook |first=Nick |date=January 7, 2020 |title=Redskins hiring Scott Turner as offensive coordinator |work=NFL.com |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/redskins-hiring-scott-turner-as-offensive-coordinator-0ap3000001095142 |url-status=live |access-date=September 7, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201006220632/https://www.nfl.com/news/redskins-hiring-scott-turner-as-offensive-coordinator-0ap3000001095142 |archive-date=October 6, 2020}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Keim |first=John |date=January 7, 2020 |title=Redskins give OC job to Scott Turner, son of team's ex-coach |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/28441173/source-redskins-give-oc-job-scott-turner-son-team-ex-coach |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200113234859/https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/28441173/source-redskins-give-oc-job-scott-turner-son-team-ex-coach |archive-date=January 13, 2020 |access-date=January 8, 2020 |work=ESPN}}</ref>

Under Rivera and Del Rio, the team switched their defensive scheme from a [[3–4 defense]], which the team had used under both Shanahan and Gruden's tenure, to a [[4–3 defense]].<ref>{{Cite news |last=Carpenter |first=Les |date=January 1, 2020 |title=Jack Del Rio to become Redskins defensive coordinator, will switch to a 4–3 scheme |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2020/01/01/jack-del-rio-defensive-coordinator-redskins-ron-rivera/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200101185335/https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2020/01/01/jack-del-rio-defensive-coordinator-redskins-ron-rivera/ |archive-date=January 1, 2020 |access-date=January 1, 2020 |newspaper=[[The Washington Post]]}}</ref> Due to their {{Win-loss record|w=3|l=13}} record the previous season, the team held the second overall pick in the [[2020 NFL draft]] and selected [[Chase Young]], who would go on to be named [[Defensive Rookie of the Year]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Keim |first=John |date=April 23, 2020 |title=Redskins draft Buckeyes DE Chase Young with No. 2 pick in NFL draft |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29089884/redskins-draft-buckeyes-de-chase-young-no-2-pick |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200424031130/https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29089884/redskins-draft-buckeyes-de-chase-young-no-2-pick |archive-date=April 24, 2020 |access-date=April 24, 2020 |work=ESPN}}</ref> [[Dwayne Haskins]], the team's first-round draft pick from 2019, was released prior to the season's end due to ineffective play and not meeting the team's standards off the field.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Keim |first=John |date=December 28, 2020 |title=Washington Football Team releases QB Dwayne Haskins |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/30613088/washington-football-team-releases-qb-dwayne-haskins-sources-say |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210101230332/https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/30613088/washington-football-team-releases-qb-dwayne-haskins-sources-say |archive-date=January 1, 2021 |access-date=December 28, 2020 |work=ESPN}}</ref> Despite that, Washington would eventually win the division for the first time since 2015 at 7–9, becoming only the third team in NFL history to win a division with a losing record in a non-strike year after the [[2010 Seattle Seahawks]] and [[2014 Carolina Panthers]], the latter of which Rivera also coached.<ref name="y223">{{cite web | last=Finlay | first=JP | title=The Redskins Are Gone, But the Team Is Here and the Future Is Bright | website=NBC4 Washington | date=January 3, 2021 | url=https://www.nbcwashington.com/news/sports/nbcsports/the-redskins-are-gone-but-the-team-is-here-and-the-future-is-bright/2527978/ | access-date=July 31, 2024}}</ref>

In July 2021, a year-long independent investigation led by lawyer [[Beth Wilkinson]] into the team's [[workplace culture]] under owner [[Daniel Snyder]] was concluded.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Keim |first=John |date=July 17, 2020 |title=Who is Beth Wilkinson? Lawyer leading Washington NFL team's investigation has high-profile history. |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2020/07/17/beth-wilkinson-washington-nfl-investigation/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210128195106/https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2020/07/17/beth-wilkinson-washington-nfl-investigation/ |archive-date=January 28, 2021 |access-date=September 1, 2020 |newspaper=[[The Washington Post]]}}</ref><ref name="WilkinsonReport">{{Cite news |last1=Hobson |first1=Will |last2=Clarke |first2=Liz |last3=Reinhard |first3=Beth |last4=Maske |first4=Mark |date=July 1, 2021 |title=NFL fines Washington Football Team $10 million; Tanya Snyder to run operations for now |newspaper=The Washington Post |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2021/07/01/daniel-snyder-nfl-fine-sexual-harassment-investigation/ |access-date=July 2, 2021 |archive-date=July 6, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210706220126/https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2021/07/01/daniel-snyder-nfl-fine-sexual-harassment-investigation/ |url-status=live }}</ref> It found that several incidents of [[sexual harassment]], bullying, and intimidation were commonplace throughout the organization under his ownership.<ref name="WilkinsonReport" /> The NFL fined the team $10&nbsp;million in response, with Snyder also voluntarily stepping down from running the team's day-to-day operations, giving those responsibilities to his wife and team CEO [[Tanya Snyder|Tanya]].<ref name="WilkinsonReport" /> A [[U.S. House Oversight Committee]] report later corroborated the claims and accused him of withholding [[security deposit|security deposits]] from season ticket holders.<ref>{{Cite web |date=July 28, 2022 |title=Commanders owner Daniel Snyder testifies before congressional committee |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/commanders-owner-daniel-snyder-testifies-before-congressional-committee |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220729002136/https://www.nfl.com/news/commanders-owner-daniel-snyder-testifies-before-congressional-committee |archive-date=July 29, 2022 |access-date=July 28, 2022 |website=NFL.com|agency=Associated Press}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last1=Clarke |first1=Liz |last2=Kane |first2=Paul |last3=Maske |first3=Mark |date=March 31, 2022 |title=Congress investigating allegations of financial impropriety by Commanders |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2022/03/31/washington-football-house-oversight-investigation/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220403021947/https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2022/03/31/washington-football-house-oversight-investigation/ |archive-date=April 3, 2022 |access-date=July 12, 2022 |newspaper=The Washington Post}}</ref>

The [[2021 Washington Football Team season|2021 season]] saw the hiring of [[Martin Mayhew]] as general manager and [[Marty Hurney]] as another high-ranking executive.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Jhabvala |first=Nicki |date=January 22, 2021 |title=Washington overhauls front office, naming Martin Mayhew as GM, Marty Hurney as executive VP |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2021/01/21/washington-football-team-martin-mayhew/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210122160122/https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2021/01/21/washington-football-team-martin-mayhew/ |archive-date=January 22, 2021 |access-date=January 22, 2021 |newspaper=The Washington Post}}</ref> With the hiring of Mayhew, Washington became the first team in NFL history to concurrently have a minority general manager, head coach, and president.<ref>{{Cite web |last=DePrisco |first=Mike |title=Black History Month: For Jason Wright, activism runs deep |url=https://www.nbcsports.com/washington/football-team/black-history-month-washington-president-jason-wright-activism-runs-deep |access-date=February 17, 2021 |work=NBC Sports |date=February 17, 2021 |archive-date=July 11, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210711165139/https://www.nbcsports.com/washington/football-team/black-history-month-washington-president-jason-wright-activism-runs-deep |url-status=live }}</ref> Backup quarterback [[Taylor Heinicke]] would start the majority of the season after [[Ryan Fitzpatrick]] was injured in the opening game. The team missed the playoffs with a {{Win-loss record|w=7|l=10}} record. The Football Team rebranded as the Commanders in [[2022 Washington Commanders season|2022]] with new logos and uniforms.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Cadeaux |first1=Ethan |title=Revamped 'Fight for Our Commanders' Fight Song Unveiled at Preseason Opener |url=https://www.nbcwashington.com/news/sports/nbcsports/revamped-fight-for-our-commanders-fight-song-unveiled-at-preseason-opener/3132614/ |work=NBC Washington |date=August 13, 2022 |access-date=August 13, 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Phillips |first1=Michael |title=Latest filing with NFL shows Commanders making strides in reforming workplace |url=https://richmond.com/sports/professional/latest-filing-with-nfl-shows-commanders-making-strides-in-reforming-workplace/article_69d81931-e415-5b23-be7e-35c9a75d9dec.html |work=[[Richmond Times-Dispatch]] |date=August 7, 2022 |access-date=August 13, 2022}}</ref> The team traded for Colts quarterback [[Carson Wentz]] in the offseason, with them finishing {{Win-loss record|w=8|l=8|t=1}} and becoming the first team since 2008 to finish last in the division with a non-losing record.<ref>{{Cite web |date=March 16, 2022 |title=Commanders acquire Carson Wentz |url=https://www.commanders.com/news/commanders-acquire-carson-wentz |access-date=March 16, 2022 |website=Commanders.com |archive-date=March 16, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220316203423/https://www.commanders.com/news/commanders-acquire-carson-wentz |url-status=dead }}</ref> Wentz, who was benched for Henicke during the season, would be released with Heinicke not being retained.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sullivan |first=Tyler |date=February 28, 2023 |title=Commanders release Carson Wentz: Top landing spots include Panthers, Bucs for veteran signal-caller |url=https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/commanders-release-carson-wentz-top-landing-spots-include-panthers-bucs-for-veteran-signal-caller/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230413225400/https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/commanders-release-carson-wentz-top-landing-spots-include-panthers-bucs-for-veteran-signal-caller/ |archive-date=April 13, 2023 |access-date=April 13, 2023 |website=CBSSports.com}}</ref> The season would also be the final one under Snyder's ownership.

=== Josh Harris era (2023–present) ===
[[File:Jayden Daniels pro debut.jpg|thumb|right|upright=.8|Quarterback [[Jayden Daniels]], selected by the Commanders second overall in the [[2024 NFL draft|2024 draft]], was the [[List of NFL Rookie of the Year awards|NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year]].]]

In November 2022, Snyder hired [[BofA Securities]] after mounting pressure from other NFL owners to sell the team to explore possible transactions.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Belson |first1=Ken |last2=Vrentas |first2=Jenny |title=Dan Snyder 'Needs to Be Removed,' Says One N.F.L. Owner |work=The New York Times |date=October 18, 2022 |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2022/10/18/sports/football/dan-snyder-washington-commanders.html |access-date=July 23, 2023 |archive-date=July 23, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230723123441/https://www.nytimes.com/2022/10/18/sports/football/dan-snyder-washington-commanders.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Whyno |first1=Stephen |title=Dan and Tanya Snyder hire firm to explore sale of Commanders |url=https://apnews.com/article/washington-commanders-nfl-sports-business-football-6870aaba035b2206862997d024b859c8 |website=AP News |date=November 2, 2022 |access-date=May 19, 2023 |archive-date=August 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230802222220/https://apnews.com/article/washington-commanders-nfl-sports-business-football-6870aaba035b2206862997d024b859c8 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Fischer |first=Ben |date=November 3, 2022 |title=SBJ Football: Fellow owners influenced Dan Snyder decision |url=https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/SB-Blogs/Newsletter-Football/2022/11/03.aspx |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230723123444/https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/SB-Blogs/Newsletter-Football/2022/11/03.aspx |archive-date=July 23, 2023 |access-date=July 23, 2023 |website=Sports Business Journal}}</ref> In May 2023, he reached an agreement to sell the franchise to a group headed by [[Josh Harris (businessman)|Josh Harris]], co-founder of [[Apollo Global Management]] and owner of the NBA's [[Philadelphia 76ers]] and NHL's [[New Jersey Devils]], for $6.05 billion.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Maske |first1=Mark |last2=Jhabvala |first2=Nicki |title=Josh Harris has a signed, exclusive deal with Daniel Snyder for Commanders |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2023/05/12/josh-harris-dan-snyder-commanders-deal/ |newspaper=The Washington Post |access-date=May 12, 2023 |date=May 12, 2023}}</ref> Key limited partners include [[Danaher Corporation|Danaher]] and [[Glenstone]] founder [[Mitchell Rales]], Hall of Fame basketball player [[Magic Johnson]], and venture captilalist [[Mark Ein]].<ref>{{cite web |last1=Ozanian |first1=Mike |title=Here's How Much Josh Harris Expects To Earn On $6 Billion Purchase Of The Washington Commanders |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/mikeozanian/2023/07/20/heres-how-much-josh-harris-expects-to-earn-on-6-billion-purchase-of-the-washington-commanders/?sh=6f59a19011d2 |website=[[Forbes]] |date=July 20, 2023 |access-date=August 20, 2023 |quote=Harris has 20 limited partners in his group, including Mitchell Rales, Magic Johnson, Eric Schmidt and Mark Ein, the most in the NFL. |archive-date=August 20, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230820160056/https://www.forbes.com/sites/mikeozanian/2023/07/20/heres-how-much-josh-harris-expects-to-earn-on-6-billion-purchase-of-the-washington-commanders/?sh=6f59a19011d2 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite press release |title=Josh Harris Announces Acquisition of Washington Commanders |date=July 21, 2023 |publisher=Washington Commanders |url=https://www.commanders.com/news/josh-harris-announces-acquisition-of-washington-commanders |access-date=July 21, 2023 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230721190232/https://www.commanders.com/news/josh-harris-announces-acquisition-of-washington-commanders |archive-date=July 21, 2023}}</ref> The sale, the highest price ever paid for a sports team, was approved by the NFL on July 20, 2023.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Jhabvala |first1=Nicki |title=The Commanders sale was so complicated, it was 'like 20 deals in one' |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2023/07/20/josh-harris-rales-commanders-owners/ |newspaper=[[The Washington Post]] |access-date=July 23, 2023 |date=July 20, 2023 |archive-date=September 9, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230909153248/https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2023/07/20/josh-harris-rales-commanders-owners/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Maske |first1=Mark |last2=Jhabvala |first2=Nicki |title=NFL owners approve sale of Commanders from Daniel Snyder to Josh Harris |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2023/07/20/washington-commanders-sale/ |newspaper=[[The Washington Post]] |access-date=July 21, 2023 |date=July 20, 2023 |archive-date=July 20, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230720210850/https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2023/07/20/washington-commanders-sale/ |url-status=live }}</ref> By 2024, the team had invested $75 million in improving the infrastructure and game experience of [[Northwest Stadium]], including improved food options and renovations to the sound system and suites.<ref>{{Cite web |date=February 27, 2024 |title=Washington Commanders announce significant upgrades to stadium, bringing targeted investments to more than $75 million under new ownership |url=https://www.commanders.com/news/washington-commanders-announce-significant-upgrades-to-stadium-bringing-targeted-investments-to-more-than-75-million-under-new-ownership |access-date=March 12, 2024 |website=Commanders.com}}</ref>

The Commanders finished the [[2023 Washington Commanders season|2023 season]] with a {{Win-loss record|w=4|l=13}} record, allowing the most points and having the worst point differential in the league.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2023 NFL Offense Total Team Stat Leaders |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/stats/team |access-date=June 14, 2024 |website=ESPN |language=en |archive-date=July 24, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240724202836/https://www.espn.com/nfl/stats/team |url-status=live }}</ref> Second-year quarterback [[Sam Howell]], who started all 17 games, also led the league in sacks allowed (65) and interceptions thrown (21).<ref>{{Cite web |last=Wells |first=Adam |date=January 8, 2024 |title=Ron Rivera Fired by Commanders After HC Went 26-40-1 in 4 Seasons |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/10052387-ron-rivera-fired-by-commanders-after-hc-went-26-40-1-in-4-seasons |access-date=January 11, 2024 |website=Bleacher Report |archive-date=January 19, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240119142519/https://bleacherreport.com/articles/10052387-ron-rivera-fired-by-commanders-after-hc-went-26-40-1-in-4-seasons |url-status=live }}</ref> It was their seventh straight non-winning season and third straight being eliminated from the playoffs, with the team also going winless in the division for the first time since [[2019 Washington Redskins season|2019]]. Head coach [[Ron Rivera]] and his staff were fired following the season's conclusion. The [[2024 Washington Commanders season|2024 season]] saw the hiring of [[Adam Peters]] as general manager and former Falcons coach [[Dan Quinn (American football)|Dan Quinn]] as head coach.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Vacchiano |first1=Ralph |title=Taking Command: How Adam Peters is reshaping football in Washington |url=https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/adam-peters-reshaping-football-in-washington |website=[[FOX Sports]] |access-date=July 20, 2024 |date=May 8, 2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Keim |first1=John |title=How the Washington Commanders hired Dan Quinn as head coach |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/39569707/how-washington-commanders-hired-dan-quinn-head-coach |website=ESPN |date=February 24, 2024 |access-date=March 6, 2024 |archive-date=February 29, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240229022212/https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/39569707/how-washington-commanders-hired-dan-quinn-head-coach |url-status=live }}</ref> The front office and roster saw several changes under Peters, including signing around 30 [[free agent]]s and selecting 2023 [[Heisman]] quarterback [[Jayden Daniels]] second overall in the [[2024 NFL draft]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Selby |first=Zach |date=April 2, 2024 |title=Commanders re-signees excited for new direction, more opportunity |url=https://www.commanders.com/news/commanders-re-signees-excited-for-new-direction-more-opportunity |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240403153110/https://www.commanders.com/news/commanders-re-signees-excited-for-new-direction-more-opportunity |archive-date=April 3, 2024 |access-date=July 24, 2024 |website=Commanders.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Selby |first=Zach |date=March 14, 2024 |title=Commanders trade QB Sam Howell for draft picks |url=https://www.commanders.com/news/commanders-trade-qb-sam-howell-for-draft-picks |access-date=March 14, 2024 |website=Commanders.com |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Keim |first1=John |title=Why Commanders selected Jayden Daniels No. 2 in NFL draft |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/40057487/why-commanders-drafted-jayden-daniels-no-2-overall |website=ESPN |access-date=May 3, 2024 |date=May 3, 2024 |archive-date=May 3, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240503150355/https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/40057487/why-commanders-drafted-jayden-daniels-no-2-overall |url-status=live }}</ref> Led by Daniels, the 2024 [[Offensive Rookie of the Year]], the Commanders went {{Win-loss record|w=12|l=5}}, won a playoff game for the first time since [[2005 Washington Redskins season|2005]], and made the [[NFC Championship Game]] for the first time since [[1991 Washington Redskins season|1991]].

On April 28, 2025, the Commanders and the D.C. government announced an agreement to build a [[New Commanders Stadium|$3.7 billion stadium]] on the former site of [[RFK Stadium]], with a target opening date of 2030. The deal is still pending approval by the [[D.C. Council]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Keim |first=John |date=April 28, 2025 |title=Commanders, D.C. reach deal for $4B stadium |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/44893202/washington-commanders-dc-reach-deal-new-stadium-rfk-site |access-date=April 28, 2025 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Dil |first=Cuneyt |date=April 28, 2025 |title=A 65,000-seat Commanders stadium — plus what's inside the RFK deal |url=https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2025/04/28/washington-commanders-stadium-rfk-bowser-deal |access-date=April 28, 2025 |website=Axios |language=en}}</ref>