Transition at the Helm: Jason Wright to Shift Roles After 2024 Season
In a significant move for the Washington Commanders, Jason Wright, the team's first Black president and one of only four former players to ascend to that role in the NFL, will transition from his current position following the 2024 season. Wright is set to take on a new role as a senior adviser, where his primary focus will be ensuring the completion of the Commanders' new stadium deal.
"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," Wright said. "In particular, I look forward to helping the organization complete its new stadium deal."
A Transformative Tenure
Wright's tenure with the Commanders has been nothing short of transformative. He began his journey with the team in 2020 when it was known as the Washington Football Team. Under his leadership, the franchise underwent a significant rebranding in 2022, emerging as the Washington Commanders. The rebrand marked a new chapter for the team, which also saw a change in ownership from Dan Snyder to Josh Harris during Wright's time at the helm.
Reflecting on his four years with the team, Wright stated, "I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished over the past four years. Together with an amazing team of professionals, we have taken this franchise through a period of immense challenge and uncertainty and have transformed it."
Wright's leadership has been instrumental in reinvigorating the team's fan base and corporate relations. "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 noted. "Most importantly, we re-established a culture of respect in this organization."
Looking Forward
As he prepares for his new advisory role, Wright's focus will be on finalizing a critical component for the team's future: the new stadium deal. This project is expected to have a lasting impact on the franchise, and Wright's continued involvement will be crucial in its realization.
However, his journey in NFL leadership may not end with the Commanders. Wright is currently a finalist for the position of president with the Green Bay Packers, signaling his ongoing relevance and demand in the league's executive circles.
"This feels like the right moment for me to explore my next leadership opportunity," Wright expressed. "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."
A Legacy of Firsts
Wright's tenure will be remembered for its many firsts. Not only did he break barriers as the first Black president of an NFL team, but he also guided the Commanders through a pivotal transformation period. His work laid the groundwork for what promises to be a bright future under new ownership and leadership.
The Commanders, having navigated a name change and a shift in ownership, are poised for further evolution, with Wright’s contributions playing an indispensable role. As he transitions to his advisory capacity, the franchise will undoubtedly continue to build on the solid foundation he helped establish.
With the 2024 season approaching, fans and stakeholders alike will be watching closely to see how Wright's final year in his current role unfolds, and how his work will continue to shape the future of the Washington Commanders.