Washington Commanders owner Josh Harris is making everyone forget Dan Snyder

When Josh Harris and his ownership group purchased the Washington Commanders for a record $6.05 billion in 2023, fans were cautiously optimistic. After more than two decades of dysfunction under Dan Snyder, the franchise was desperate for change.

Now, just over a year into Harris’ tenure, it’s clear: he’s making everyone forget the Snyder era.

From restoring fan trust to making bold front-office moves, Harris has quickly transformed the Commanders into a respected NFL franchise again. Here’s how he’s doing it.

1. Rebuilding Trust with the Fanbase

Dan Snyder’s reign was marked by scandals, losing seasons, and a toxic relationship with Washington’s loyal fanbase. Stadium attendance dropped, and many supporters even abandoned the team altogether.

Harris understood that his first task was winning back the fans.

Listening to the Community: Harris has been visible and accessible, engaging with fans, former players, and local leaders. Unlike Snyder, who was often aloof, Harris attends games, interacts with supporters, and acknowledges the franchise’s storied history.
Improving the Game-Day Experience: FedEx Field, long criticized as one of the worst stadiums in the NFL, is finally getting upgrades. Harris has invested in better facilities, cleaner restrooms, and improved concessions—small but meaningful changes that show he cares.
Bringing Back Alumni: Snyder alienated many franchise legends. Harris has welcomed back icons like Joe Gibbs, Doug Williams, and others, bridging the gap between past and present.

These efforts have reignited passion in the fanbase, with season ticket sales and merchandise revenue rising significantly.

2. A Competent, Football-First Leadership Approach

Snyder was infamous for meddling in football operations, leading to constant instability. Harris, in contrast, has taken a hands-off, professional approach.

Hiring Adam Peters as GM: One of Harris’ first major moves was bringing in Adam Peters, a highly respected executive from the 49ers, to lead football operations. Peters has a track record of building winning teams, and his hiring signaled a shift toward serious, long-term planning.
Choosing Dan Quinn as Head Coach: After years of coaching carousels under Snyder, Harris and Peters made a strong hire in Dan Quinn, a proven leader who helped build the Cowboys’ elite defense. Quinn brings credibility and a winning culture.
Letting Football People Make Decisions: Unlike Snyder, who often overruled his staff, Harris trusts his hires to do their jobs. This structure is how successful franchises like the Eagles, Chiefs, and 49ers operate.

The result? A clear vision for the future—something Washington hasn’t had in decades.

3. Drafting and Developing Talent the Right Way

Snyder’s Commanders were notorious for poor drafts, reckless free-agent spending, and failing to develop young players. Harris is changing that.

2024 Draft Success: Washington landed potential franchise QB Jayden Daniels (Heisman winner) and added key pieces like DT Johnny Newton and TE Ben Sinnott. Unlike past regimes that reached for flashy picks, this draft was strategic and disciplined.
Smart Free Agency Moves: Instead of overspending on aging stars (a Snyder hallmark), Harris’ team targeted high-character veterans like Bobby Wagner and Zach Ertz—players who elevate the locker room.
Investing in Infrastructure: Harris is upgrading training facilities, analytics departments, and scouting—areas Snyder neglected. Winning organizations invest in these behind-the-scenes elements.

The early returns are promising, with analysts praising Washington’s roster-building approach.

4. A New Stadium and Long-Term Stability

One of Snyder’s biggest failures was his inability to secure a new stadium, leaving the team stuck in an outdated FedEx Field. Harris is already making progress.

Virginia, Maryland, or D.C.? Harris is exploring all options for a state-of-the-art stadium, engaging with local governments to find the best deal. Unlike Snyder, who burned bridges, Harris is negotiating collaboratively.
A Modern NFL Venue: A new stadium would mean better revenue streams, enhanced fan experiences, and potential Super Bowl bids—critical for long-term success.

This kind of forward-thinking planning was nonexistent under Snyder.

5. Restoring the Franchise’s Reputation

Beyond wins and losses, Snyder’s tenure was plagued by scandals—sexual harassment allegations, toxic workplace culture, and even a congressional investigation. Harris has worked swiftly to clean up the mess.

A New Culture: Harris has emphasized accountability, diversity, and professionalism in the front office. Employees have praised the healthier work environment.
Philanthropy & Community Engagement: The Commanders are re-establishing themselves as a positive force in the DMV area, with increased charitable efforts and community programs.
No More Drama: Under Snyder, Washington was a constant source of negative headlines. Under Harris, the focus is finally back on football.

Conclusion: A New Era for Washington Football

Dan Snyder’s legacy was one of embarrassment and failure. In just one year, Josh Harris has done more to rebuild the Commanders than Snyder did in 24.

From reconnecting with fans to installing a competent leadership team, Harris is proving what happens when an NFL franchise is run the right way. The road ahead isn’t easy—Washington still needs to win on the field—but for the first time in decades, there’s real hope.

Josh Harris isn’t just owning the Commanders; he’s reviving them. And with every positive move, Dan Snyder’s disastrous era fades further into the past.