Commanders fans celebrate win, react to possible return of team to DC
Dec 22, 2024
LARGO, Md. (DC News Now) -- There was plenty for Washington Commanders fans to celebrate Sunday after the team defeated NFC East Division rival Philadelphia, 36-33, thanks to a last-minute change.
"You know we got it; it seems like it's turning the corner," said Orson Charles. "We got the good direction we're going into, and I'm optimistic. See what the future holds for us."
Charles and others watched the game on the big screens at Jasper's Restaurant, not far from Northwest Stadium, as the Commanders moved closer to a shot at their first playoff game since 2020.
But how much longer will the team play in neighboring Maryland?
On Saturday, the U.S. Senate passed a resolution that, if signed by President Biden, would give control of the old RFK Stadium to the District, opening the possibility for a new football stadium.
Senate passes RFK Stadium bill, leaders react
The stadium served as the team's home until 1997, when it moved to Prince George's County.
The managing partner for the Commanders, Josh Harris, has expressed interest in returning to D.C. but has not ruled out building a new stadium in Maryland or Virginia.
"In D.C., you know, get back to the home, get back to those John Riggins days, those days we used to play that good football," Charles said.
But not all the fans at the restaurant agreed.
"Love them in Landover," said Lamia Hodges. "I'm literally like five minutes away, so this is amazing for me."
There's been no word when the Commanders will decide where to build their new stadium. Harris previously stated he would like his team to play in a new stadium by 2030. The team's lease at Northwest Stadium runs through 2027.