The Washington Commanders are one of the NFL’s most historic franchises, with a legacy that stretches back to 1932. Over the decades, the team has seen glory on the field with multiple championships and challenges off the field with ownership changes and controversies. Fans and analysts alike continue to watch closely as the team enters a new era of leadership and rebuilding. For many, the most common question is who owns Washington Commanders today, since the current ownership marks a dramatic shift from the past and carries hopes for a brighter future.
Washington Commanders Profile
The Washington Commanders are one of the oldest and most storied franchises in the National Football League. Founded in 1932, the team has gone through multiple relocations, rebrandings, and ownership transitions.
With three Super Bowl victories, deep roots in Washington, D.C., and a loyal fan base, the Commanders have played a major role in shaping the history of professional football. Their journey reflects both triumphs on the field and challenges off it, making them one of the most talked-about teams in the NFL.
Founding and Early Identity
The franchise was established in Boston in 1932 by businessman George Preston Marshall and was originally called the Boston Braves.
A year later, the name was changed to the Boston Redskins.
In 1937, the team relocated to Washington, D.C., where it quickly grew into one of the league’s premier clubs.
Marshall was known for his marketing skills, which helped popularize football in the nation’s capital, though his tenure was also marked by controversies, especially regarding racial integration.
Ownership and Rebranding
After Marshall, the team eventually came under the ownership of Jack Kent Cooke, who guided the Commanders through one of their most successful eras. Following his death in 1997, ownership passed briefly to his estate before Daniel Snyder purchased the franchise in 1999.
Snyder’s two-decade tenure was filled with financial growth but also criticism, as the team struggled competitively and dealt with workplace culture scandals. In 2020, under mounting pressure, the franchise dropped the “Redskins” name, becoming the Washington Football Team.
In 2022, the permanent name Washington Commanders was chosen. The most significant shift came in 2023, when Snyder sold the franchise to a consortium led by billionaire Josh Harris, opening a new chapter for the organization.
Team Identity and Home Stadiums
The Commanders have always been associated with Burgundy and Gold, colors that symbolize tradition and unity for their fan base. Over the years, the team has played in several stadiums, including Griffith Stadium, RFK Stadium, and, most recently, FedExField in Landover, Maryland.
In 2025, the franchise announced a landmark agreement to build a new stadium on the RFK Stadium site in Washington, D.C., scheduled to open by 2030. This project is expected to rejuvenate the team’s presence in the city and reconnect with its historic roots.
Major Milestones
The Washington Commanders’ history is filled with defining moments that shaped their legacy:
- 1932: Franchise founded as the Boston Braves by George Preston Marshall.
- 1933: Renamed Boston Redskins.
- 1937: Relocated to Washington, D.C., and won the NFL Championship in their first season after the move.
- 1942: Captured another NFL Championship during World War II.
- 1961: Moved to RFK Stadium, which became a central home for the franchise for decades.
- 1982: Won their first Super Bowl (Super Bowl XVII) under head coach Joe Gibbs.
- 1987: Claimed a second Super Bowl title (Super Bowl XXII) with quarterback Doug Williams making history as the first Black quarterback to win the Super Bowl.
- 1991: Won their third Super Bowl (Super Bowl XXVI) in one of the most dominant seasons in NFL history.
- 1997: Jack Kent Cooke passed away, leading to changes in franchise ownership.
- 1999: Daniel Snyder purchased the franchise for $800 million.
- 2000s: Franchise remained financially strong but struggled competitively, failing to sustain playoff success.
- 2012: Drafted quarterback Robert Griffin III, sparking a brief resurgence and division title.
- 2020: Officially dropped the Redskins name and became the Washington Football Team.
- 2022: Rebranded as the Washington Commanders.
- 2023: Sold to Josh Harris and his ownership group for $6.05 billion, setting a record for a sports franchise sale.
- 2024: Under new leadership with GM Adam Peters and head coach Dan Quinn, the Commanders reached the NFC Championship Game, their deepest playoff run in decades.
- 2025: Announced new $3.7 billion stadium project at the RFK site, strengthening ties to Washington, D.C., with completion expected by 2030.
Who Owns Washington Commanders: Largest Shareholders
The Washington Commanders are owned by a high-profile investment group led by billionaire Josh Harris. In July 2023, the group bought the franchise from Daniel Snyder for $6.05 billion, making it the most expensive sale of a sports franchise in history.
The ownership is structured as a consortium, with Harris holding the controlling stake and several other notable investors, including business leaders and sports legends, owning minority shares. This ownership model brings both financial strength and cultural influence to the franchise.
Below is a breakdown of the top shareholders of the Washington Commanders as of September 2025:
| Shareholder | Estimated Stake | Role in Ownership Group | Key Contributions & Influence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Josh Harris | 30% | Principal Owner & Managing Partner | Controls the franchise, leads decision-making, oversees stadium project, and represents the Commanders publicly. |
| Mitchell Rales | 20% | Major Partner & Local Representative | Brings regional ties, focuses on community relations, and supports long-term stadium and business planning. |
| David Blitzer | 5% | Strategic Partner | Experienced global sports investor, co-owns other Harris sports assets, adds operational expertise. |
| Magic Johnson | 4% | Minority Owner & Brand Ambassador | Provides cultural visibility, marketing influence, and strengthens national fan engagement. |
| Other Private Investors | 41% | Minority Stakeholders | Financial backers including executives and private equity investors, provide stability and funding for growth. |
Josh Harris – 30%
Josh Harris is the principal owner and managing partner of the Washington Commanders with an estimated 30% stake in the team.
As co-founder of Apollo Global Management and current owner of the Philadelphia 76ers and New Jersey Devils, Harris brings unmatched experience in professional sports ownership.
His leadership role includes making key strategic decisions, overseeing stadium development plans, and guiding the long-term vision of the Commanders. Harris is the clear decision-making authority in the ownership group and the public face of its leadership.
Mitchell Rales – 20%
Mitchell Rales, a billionaire industrialist and co-founder of Danaher Corporation, holds an estimated 20% share in the Commanders. A native of the Washington, D.C. area, Rales is seen as the partner most deeply connected to the team’s local identity.
His role extends beyond financial investment, as he is actively involved in community relations and the franchise’s plan to build a new stadium at the RFK site. Rales provides strong regional representation within the ownership group and is a critical partner to Harris in steering the franchise forward.
Magic Johnson – 4%
Earvin “Magic” Johnson, the NBA Hall of Famer and accomplished businessman, owns about 4% of the Commanders. While his stake is relatively small compared to Harris and Rales, his influence is enormous. Johnson brings cultural visibility, marketing expertise, and credibility to the ownership group.
Known for his successful business ventures and prior ownership roles with the Los Angeles Dodgers and Los Angeles Sparks, Johnson has become a powerful ambassador for the Commanders’ brand, helping strengthen ties with fans nationwide.
David Blitzer – 5%
David Blitzer, a longtime business partner of Josh Harris and co-owner of Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment, holds approximately 5% of the Commanders. Blitzer is also a co-owner of the Philadelphia 76ers, New Jersey Devils, and several European soccer clubs, giving him a wide range of sports management experience.
His involvement adds depth to the ownership group, particularly in terms of global sports investments and operational expertise.
Other Private Investors – 41%
The remaining ownership stake, about 41%, is divided among a collection of private investors and smaller stakeholders. These individuals include business executives, private equity partners, and regional investors who supported the record-breaking acquisition.
While they play less visible roles than Harris, Rales, Johnson, or Blitzer, their collective backing provides the financial scale necessary for ongoing investments in stadium infrastructure, player development, and community initiatives.
Washington Commanders Ownership History
The ownership history of the Washington Commanders reflects the transformation of both the franchise and the NFL itself. From its founding in the 1930s through decades of family control, controversial leadership, and finally a record-breaking sale, the team’s ownership has shaped its culture and identity. Each era left a lasting mark, influencing how fans view the franchise today.
| Era / Owner | Years of Ownership | Key Details & Contributions |
|---|---|---|
| George Preston Marshall | 1932 – 1969 | Founder of the franchise, moved team from Boston to Washington in 1937, built early fan base, but resisted integration until 1962, leaving a controversial legacy. |
| Jack Kent Cooke | 1974 – 1997 | Oversaw the team’s golden era, hiring Joe Gibbs and winning three Super Bowls (1982, 1987, 1991). Passed away in 1997, leading to sale of the team. |
| Daniel Snyder | 1999 – 2023 | Bought the team for $800M, marked by strong revenue growth but constant criticism over poor performance, frequent coaching changes, workplace scandals, and name controversies. Oversaw rebranding to Washington Football Team (2020) and Washington Commanders (2022). |
| Josh Harris Group | 2023 – Present | Purchased franchise for $6.05B with partners Mitchell Rales, David Blitzer, and Magic Johnson. Focused on cultural reset, community ties, competitive rebuild, and major stadium project in Washington, D.C. (expected completion 2030). |
George Preston Marshall Era (1932–1969)
The Commanders were founded in 1932 by businessman George Preston Marshall as the Boston Braves before moving to Washington in 1937. Marshall was instrumental in promoting football in the nation’s capital and building the team’s early fan base.
However, his legacy is controversial, as he resisted integrating the team until 1962, making Washington the last NFL franchise to sign African American players. Marshall remained the majority owner until his death in 1969.
Jack Kent Cooke Era (1974–1997)
After Marshall’s passing, ownership eventually transferred to Jack Kent Cooke, who formally became the principal owner in 1974. Cooke oversaw one of the franchise’s most successful periods, hiring head coach Joe Gibbs and building teams that won three Super Bowls in the 1980s and early 1990s.
His leadership solidified Washington’s reputation as a dominant NFL powerhouse. Cooke’s death in 1997 set the stage for the franchise to pass into new hands.
The Snyder Era (1999–2023)
Daniel Snyder purchased the team in 1999 for $800 million, at the time the highest price paid for an NFL franchise. His ownership was marked by sharp revenue growth and high-profile business deals, but also by intense criticism.
Fans grew frustrated with poor on-field performance, frequent coaching changes, and allegations of toxic workplace culture. The team also came under fire for its old name, leading to its retirement in 2020.
Under Snyder’s leadership, the team briefly became the Washington Football Team before rebranding as the Washington Commanders in 2022. Mounting controversies and financial pressures ultimately led Snyder to sell the franchise in 2023.
The Josh Harris Group Era (2023–Present)
In July 2023, the Washington Commanders were sold to a consortium led by billionaire Josh Harris for $6.05 billion, setting a new record for a sports franchise. Harris, along with partners Mitchell Rales, David Blitzer, and Magic Johnson, ushered in a new chapter focused on restoring trust and improving the team’s competitiveness.
Under the new ownership, the Commanders quickly began to reshape their culture, hiring new executives, investing in football operations, and planning a state-of-the-art stadium at the RFK site.
By 2025, the franchise had not only regained credibility but also reemerged as a competitive force, highlighted by its deep playoff run in 2024.
Josh Harris Net Worth
Josh Harris, the principal owner of the Washington Commanders, has an estimated net worth of $11 billion as of September 2025. His wealth has steadily grown through private equity, sports investments, and diversified ventures. Harris has positioned himself as not only a billionaire investor but also one of the most influential sports owners globally.
Apollo Global Management and Private Equity Success
The bulk of Harris’s fortune stems from his role as a co-founder of Apollo Global Management, established in 1990. Apollo is one of the largest private equity firms worldwide, managing more than $650 billion in assets.
Harris’s early equity and leadership in the company have consistently increased his wealth. Even after stepping back from day-to-day operations, his ownership stake continues to generate immense financial returns.
Expansion into Sports Ownership
Harris has strategically invested in professional sports franchises. He co-owns the Philadelphia 76ers (NBA), the New Jersey Devils (NHL), and acquired the Washington Commanders (NFL) in 2023 for $6.05 billion. These franchises have appreciated in value significantly, with the Commanders alone projected to grow further once the new RFK stadium project is completed.
Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment, his joint venture with David Blitzer, manages these assets and solidifies Harris’s presence in the global sports market.
Real Estate and Other Investments
Beyond private equity and sports, Harris has invested heavily in real estate, technology, and venture capital funds. His portfolio includes high-value properties in New York, Miami, and Washington, D.C. These investments diversify his income streams, providing both stability and long-term growth potential.
Philanthropy and Community Impact
Harris is also known for his philanthropy and civic engagement. Through the Harris Philanthropies foundation, he has funded education initiatives, health care programs, and youth sports development. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Harris pledged millions toward relief efforts.
His ownership of the Commanders is partly driven by a desire to repair the franchise’s public image and strengthen ties with the Washington, D.C. community.
Influence in the NFL and Global Sports
With his $11 billion net worth, Harris ranks among the wealthiest NFL owners, placing him in the same league as Jerry Jones, Stan Kroenke, and Rob Walton. His financial muscle allows him to fund high-profile signings, build modern stadiums, and invest in advanced analytics for competitive advantage.
Harris’s influence extends beyond the NFL, making him a central figure in shaping the future of professional sports ownership worldwide.
Washington Commanders Net Worth
As of September 2025, the Washington Commanders are valued at $7.6 billion. This makes them the fourth most valuable franchise in the NFL and one of the top sports teams globally.
Its value is fueled by its location in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, one of the richest sports markets in the country, and the renewed optimism surrounding the team after the 2023 ownership change.
Comparison to Other NFL Teams
In comparison to other NFL franchises, the Commanders have made significant financial strides. The Dallas Cowboys remain the most valuable NFL team at around $10 billion, followed by the New England Patriots (approx. $8.5 billion) and the Los Angeles Rams ($7.9 billion).
The Commanders’ $7.6 billion valuation places them just ahead of the San Francisco 49ers and the New York Giants. This ranking highlights the strong market potential and fan base in Washington, particularly as the team transitions into a new era of stability and growth.
Revenue Streams
The Commanders’ revenue streams are diversified, with broadcasting rights forming the largest portion, thanks to the NFL’s record-breaking media contracts. Game-day revenue contributes heavily as well, with FedEx Field generating strong income from ticket sales, concessions, and corporate suites, though it is expected to be surpassed by the new RFK stadium project once completed.
Sponsorship and partnerships have surged since the Harris group took over, as many major brands re-engaged with the team following Snyder’s exit.
In 2024, total revenue was estimated at $720 million, and projections for 2025 are higher due to stronger attendance and improved merchandise sales.
Impact of New Ownership
The purchase of the franchise by Josh Harris and his ownership group in 2023 for $6.05 billion has had a transformative effect. Under Harris, the Commanders have prioritized transparency, community engagement, and on-field competitiveness. Corporate partners who had distanced themselves during the Snyder era have returned, boosting sponsorship income.
The new ownership group has also committed to a $3.7 billion stadium project at the RFK site, expected to open in 2030, which will dramatically increase the franchise’s revenue potential.
Historical Valuation Growth
The Commanders’ valuation has grown significantly over time, showing the strength of the NFL brand and the Washington market:
- 1999: Valued at around $800 million when Daniel Snyder purchased the team.
- 2010: Grew to roughly $1.5 billion, reflecting strong NFL-wide media revenue growth.
- 2020: Estimated at $3.5 billion, despite poor on-field performance and organizational controversies.
- 2023: Sold for $6.05 billion, the highest price ever paid for a sports franchise at the time.
- 2025: Now valued at $7.6 billion, showing an increase of more than $1.5 billion in just two years under Harris’s ownership.
Below is an overview of the last 10 years’ net worth of the Washington Commanders:
| Year | Estimated Net Worth | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 | $2.95 billion | Consistently among the NFL’s most valuable teams, despite limited playoff success. |
| 2016 | $3.10 billion | Growth fueled by NFL broadcast revenue and strong local market. |
| 2017 | $3.25 billion | Continued rise despite ongoing controversies under Dan Snyder’s ownership. |
| 2018 | $3.30 billion | Slight growth as team value plateaued due to declining fan support. |
| 2019 | $3.40 billion | Sponsorships began pulling back due to organizational issues. |
| 2020 | $3.50 billion | Rebranded as Washington Football Team; valuation held steady amid turmoil. |
| 2021 | $4.20 billion | NFL-wide revenue rebound post-pandemic boosted valuations. |
| 2022 | $5.60 billion | Surge in anticipation of team sale, plus Commanders rebrand to official name. |
| 2023 | $6.05 billion | Sold to Josh Harris group, setting a record for U.S. sports franchise sale. |
| 2024 | $6.90 billion | Immediate sponsor and fan revival under new ownership, plus RFK stadium plans. |
| 2025 | $7.60 billion | Ranked 4th most valuable NFL franchise, with strong growth outlook. |
Future Outlook
Looking ahead, the Commanders are projected to continue climbing the valuation rankings. With one of the NFL’s wealthiest ownership groups, a massive and engaged fan base, and a brand-new stadium on the way, experts project the team’s valuation could surpass $9 billion by the early 2030s.
If the team achieves consistent playoff success or secures a Super Bowl title, the financial upside could be even greater. The combination of cultural rebuilding, smart financial management, and prime market positioning makes the Commanders one of the most promising franchises in the NFL today.
Who Controls the Washington Commanders?
The Washington Commanders is controlled by Josh Harris and his ownership group, which purchased the team in 2023 for $6.05 billion. While Harris is the principal owner and holds the majority stake, the Commanders’ leadership also includes a mix of co-owners, executives, and football operations staff who guide the day-to-day and long-term direction of the franchise.
| Role | Primary Responsibility | Reports To |
|---|---|---|
| Principal Owner (Josh Harris) | Overall strategy, finances, major hires, infrastructure | Ownership Board |
| Team President (Mark Clouse) | Business operations: stadium, marketing, sponsorships | Owner (Harris) |
| General Manager (Adam Peters) | Player personnel, contracts, roster building | Owner / President |
| Head Coach (Dan Quinn) | Coaching staff, game strategy, performance | GM & Ownership |
Josh Harris – Principal Owner
Josh Harris serves as the controlling owner of the Washington Commanders. With his majority stake, Harris has the final authority over financial decisions, long-term strategy, and major hires.
His reputation as a disciplined investor and experienced sports franchise owner allows him to bring stability after decades of turmoil under previous ownership. Harris also ensures alignment between the business side of the team and its football operations.
Mitchell Rales – Key Minority Owner
Mitchell Rales, a billionaire industrialist and philanthropist from Maryland, is one of the largest minority stakeholders. His local roots and business acumen give him a strong role in shaping the Commanders’ cultural identity.
Rales is also heavily involved in community outreach and long-term strategic planning, particularly in the development of the new RFK stadium project.
Magic Johnson – Minority Owner and Public Face
Magic Johnson owns a smaller percentage of the franchise but plays an outsized role in its leadership. As a global sports icon and successful businessman, Johnson has become the public ambassador of the ownership group.
He is heavily engaged in building relationships with fans, sponsors, and local communities, and his presence has helped revitalize the team’s image.
David Blitzer – Strategic Partner
David Blitzer, Harris’s long-time business partner, holds a significant minority stake. As co-founder of Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment, Blitzer brings vast experience in sports management and financial oversight.
His influence is strongest in operational efficiency and global sports connections, helping the Commanders integrate best practices from other leagues and teams.
Mark Clouse – Team President
Mark Clouse was appointed president of the Washington Commanders in early 2025. Clouse, who previously served as CEO of Campbell Soup Company, brings a strong corporate leadership background and experience in transforming large organizations.
His focus with the Commanders is on rebuilding the franchise’s brand reputation, increasing revenues, and deepening community ties in the D.C. metropolitan area.
Clouse oversees stadium development, marketing, ticket sales, sponsorships, media partnerships, and fan experience initiatives. One of his most critical responsibilities is leading the planning and execution of the Commanders’ new $3.7 billion RFK Stadium project, expected to open by 2030.
He is also tasked with modernizing the team’s business operations, ensuring the Commanders are financially competitive with top NFL franchises.
Clouse reports directly to principal owner Josh Harris and serves as a key link between the ownership group and the executive staff. While he plays no role in day-to-day football decisions, his business expertise ensures the team has the financial resources and infrastructure needed to succeed.
Adam Peters – General Manager & Dan Quinn – Head Coach
In January 2024, the Commanders hired Adam Peters as general manager. Peters is one of the NFL’s most respected front-office executives, having previously helped build the San Francisco 49ers into a Super Bowl contender.
As GM, Peters oversees player personnel, scouting, free agency, contract negotiations, and the NFL Draft. His long-term mandate is to rebuild the Commanders’ roster into a sustainable championship-caliber team.
Working closely with Peters is head coach Dan Quinn, hired in 2024 after successful stints as defensive coordinator for the Dallas Cowboys and head coach of the Atlanta Falcons, where he led the team to Super Bowl LI. Quinn is responsible for the coaching staff, game strategies, player development, and overall on-field performance.
Known for his defensive expertise and leadership style, Quinn is considered a culture-builder, vital for stabilizing the team after years of instability.
Together, Peters and Quinn form the core of football operations. They have autonomy over roster building and game-day decisions but remain accountable to ownership and the president for long-term alignment with the Commanders’ vision.
Their partnership symbolizes the team’s renewed emphasis on professional football management, transparency, and competitive growth.
Final Thoughts
The Washington Commanders have transitioned through several significant ownership eras, from Marshall and Cooke to Snyder and now Harris. Today, Josh Harris and his partners are steering the franchise toward a new future with stability, growth, and renewed trust from fans. Understanding who owns Washington Commanders provides insight into not just financial control but also the vision guiding one of the NFL’s most historic teams.
FAQs
Who are the new owners of Washington Commanders?
The new owners of the Washington Commanders are led by billionaire investor Josh Harris, who purchased the team in July 2023. His ownership group includes Mitchell Rales, Magic Johnson, and David Blitzer, along with several other minority investors.
What’s the list of Washington Commanders owners?
The Commanders’ ownership group is composed of:
- Josh Harris – Principal owner and controlling stakeholder
- Mitchell Rales – Billionaire industrialist and philanthropist, significant minority owner
- Magic Johnson – Former NBA star and businessman, minority owner and public ambassador
- David Blitzer – Longtime business partner of Harris, minority owner
Additional investors also hold smaller stakes, but Harris remains the primary decision-maker.
Who are the owners of Washington Commanders?
The Commanders are owned by a group led by Josh Harris, with support from high-profile partners like Mitchell Rales, David Blitzer, and Magic Johnson. Together, they form one of the wealthiest and most diverse ownership teams in the NFL.
What are the Washington Commanders’ other names?
The team has been known by several names throughout its history:
- Boston Braves (1932, original founding name)
- Boston Redskins (1933–1936)
- Washington Redskins (1937–2019)
- Washington Football Team (2020–2021)
- Washington Commanders (2022–present).
Is Magic Johnson part-owner of the Washington Commanders?
Yes, Magic Johnson is a minority owner of the Washington Commanders. He joined Josh Harris’s ownership group in 2023 and has become one of the most visible figures representing the team in the public eye.
Does Jeff Bezos own the Washington Commanders?
No, Jeff Bezos does not own the Washington Commanders. While Bezos was rumored to be interested during the sale process in 2022 and 2023, he did not place a final bid.
Who are the minority owners of the Washington Commanders?
The main minority owners include Mitchell Rales, Magic Johnson, and David Blitzer. Several other investors hold smaller shares, but these three are the most prominent names in the ownership group.
Does Shaq own the Washington Commanders?
No, Shaquille O’Neal (Shaq) does not own any part of the Washington Commanders. His name has never been linked to the team’s ownership.
Is Jay Z a part-owner of the Washington Commanders?
No, Jay Z is not part of the Washington Commanders ownership group. Although he has business ventures in sports and entertainment, he is not connected with the Commanders.
What percent of the Commanders does Josh Harris own?
Josh Harris is the controlling owner with approximately a 30% stake in the team. While other partners hold shares, Harris maintains final authority as managing partner.
Who is the new CEO of the Washington Commanders?
The Commanders do not have a traditional CEO. Instead, Josh Harris acts as the de facto CEO as principal owner, while Mark Clouse serves as team president managing business operations, and Adam Peters serves as general manager handling football decisions.
What is the Washington Commanders’ old name?
The team’s old and most historically recognized name was the Washington Redskins, used from 1937 to 2019. It was later changed to the Washington Football Team before adopting its current name, Commanders, in 2022.
How much did the Washington Commanders sell for?
The Washington Commanders sold for $6.05 billion in July 2023, marking the most expensive sale price for a sports franchise in history at the time.