What The Redskins Should Be Called Instead, Illustrated
Recently, several high-profile NFL commentators, including Phil Simms of CBS and Tony Dungy of NBC, announced that they will not refer to the Washington football franchise by their controversial nickname during broadcasts, following in the steps of NBC's Bob Costas, who came out against the mascot last season.
The controversy has been around for a while, but it re-ignited in earnest in 2013 after the Oneida Indian Nation launched its "Change the Mascot" campaign. Despite growing public pressure, team owner Dan Snyder and many fans have staunchly defended the mascot as a term of honor and respect.
Should Snyder eventually relent (don't count on it), the Internet has helpfully brainstormed some possibilities for a new mascot, with suggestions ranging from the obvious (D.C.'s pro hockey and baseball teams have already snagged Capitals and Nationals, respectively) to the obviously trolling (Washington Reagans, anyone?).
Digg is here to assess some of the most popular options.
Skins
Pro: Already used by fans as shorthand for "Redskins."
Con: Already used by fans as shorthand for "Redskins."
Griffins
Pro: Star quarterback Robert Griffin III would definitely be a fan.
Con: The rest of us would be busy trying to figure out what on earth griffins have to do with Washington, D.C.
Renegades
Pro: New England's MLS club already has "Revolution" locked down, but Renegades is an appealing alternative. The franchise's old "R" logo would also do nicely.
Con: Real talk — there hasn't been a renegade anywhere near the Beltway since Sarah Palin left.
(Via NESN)
Warriors
Pro: The people approve, and points for alliteration.
Con: Might hit a bit too close to home.
Redtails
Pro: Repurposing the "Red" to commemorate the trailblazing Tuskegee Airmen would be a nice touch.
Con: Tuskegee is in Alabama. Washington, D.C. is not in Alabama.
(Via ESPN)
Pigskins
Pro: Football-appropriate and some fans already have the appropriate regalia.
Con: The stubborn Snyder is unlikely to be swayed by the prospect of having the goofiest mascot in the NFL.
Braves And Natives
Sigh. Let's just file these under "Missing the Point."