LANDOVER, Md. (WAVY) — The Washington Commanders’ 2024 overhaul includes an unexpected element: a stadium name change.
A Washington team spokesperson confirmed on Wednesday that FedEx decided to end its naming rights agreement for FedEx Field two years early. It’s held the naming rights to Washington’s stadium in Landover, Maryland, since 1999, two years after it opened.
The spokesperson said the team’s already in the process of trying to find a new naming rights partner, “a partner who will play a crucial role in ushering in the next era of not only Commanders football, but also a robust slate of top live events and concerts.”
The news comes a day after Washington announced more than $75 million in upgrades for the stadium, including new premium seating, improved food and beverage options, sound system and other infrastructure upgrades and more.
The Commanders made several personnel changes this offseason after finishing in last place in the NFC East this past season at 4-13. They have a new general manager in Adam Peters (previously San Francisco’s assistant GM) and new head coach Dan Quinn (formerly head coach of the Atlanta Falcons).
Josh Harris, whose ownership group bought the team in 2023 from controversial owner Dan Snyder, says he wants the team rebuilt to be quick, but it will take time to compete for championships.
Washington has the No. 2 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, as well as two second round and two third round picks.
Meanwhile, the Commanders are still exploring the possibility of moving back into the city at the old RFK Stadium site. A new bill proposed in the House of Representatives would allow the District to take control of the land from the federal government for a potential redevelopment.