Jason Wright's Next Chapter: From Commanders President to Senior Adviser
Jason Wright, who has been at the helm of the Washington Commanders since 2020, will transition from his current role following the 2024 season. Wright, the NFL's first Black team president and one of only four former players to assume such a position in the league, will take on a new role as a senior adviser. His primary focus will be to ensure the completion of the Commanders' new stadium deal.
Wright's tenure with the Commanders began during a tumultuous period, as the team was undergoing a rebranding process after decades as the Washington Redskins. In 2020, when Wright started his tenure, the team had temporarily adopted the name Washington Football Team. In 2022, under Wright's leadership, the franchise rebranded to the Washington Commanders, a decision that was part of a broader effort to revitalize the team's image and connect with its fan base.
"I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished over the past four years," Wright said. "Together with an amazing team of professionals, we have taken this franchise through a period of immense challenge and uncertainty and have transformed it. We've set the table for an incredibly bright future under Josh's leadership."
The period Wright refers to includes significant changes both on and off the field. The Commanders saw a change in ownership from longtime owner Dan Snyder to Josh Harris. The ownership transition was a pivotal moment for the franchise, symbolizing a new era of leadership and potential growth.
Wright's leadership also witnessed a resurgence in fan engagement. "Over just the past year, we've welcomed record numbers of fans back into our building, made meaningful improvements to the fan experience, re-engaged with corporate partners, and reconnected with the community," Wright emphasized. "Most importantly, we re-established a culture of respect in this organization."
As Wright prepares to shift his focus to the Commanders' stadium deal, he remains committed to the organization through the 2024-2025 season. "Given all those accomplishments, that's why I am proud to announce I will remain with the team throughout the 2024-2025 season, with the same responsibilities. In particular, I look forward to helping the organization complete its new stadium deal," he stated.
The new stadium deal is a critical project for the Commanders. It is expected to not only provide a state-of-the-art facility for the team and its fans but also serve as a cornerstone for further community and economic development in the region.
The next chapter in Wright's career might be even more promising, as he is a finalist for the position of president with the Green Bay Packers. This potential move signals the high regard in which Wright's leadership and expertise are held across the NFL.
"This feels like the right moment for me to explore my next leadership opportunity. I'm extremely grateful to my Commanders colleagues, our fans, and this community for all that we have accomplished these past four years, and am looking forward to the start of a very successful season for the Burgundy and Gold," Wright said, expressing his commitment to the immediate future while hinting at new opportunities ahead.
Wright's journey from a former NFL player to a historic figure in NFL executive circles is a testament to his dedication and vision. As he moves into his advisory role, the Commanders and their fans can look forward to the fruition of the ambitious projects set in motion during his presidency. The completion of the new stadium deal, under Wright's guidance, promises to be a landmark achievement for the franchise, showcasing the lasting impact of his leadership.
From the rebranding efforts to the revitalized fan engagement, Wright's tenure has been marked by transformative changes. His forward-thinking approach and ability to steer the franchise through periods of significant change leave a lasting legacy. As Wright continues to shape the future of the Commanders, and potentially brings his expertise to another storied NFL franchise, his contributions to the sport remain invaluable.