A New Era for the Washington Commanders
Washington Commanders owner Josh Harris made a bold commitment to improve the lives of the players when he acquired the team in July 2023 for a record $6 billion from the disgraced Dan Snyder. Less than two years later, the impact of Harris’ ownership is clearly resonating within the locker room. The team’s dramatic improvement in the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) 2025 report card survey, jumping from last place in 2023 and 2024 to 11th place, is a testament to the significant cultural shift he has spearheaded. This leap is the third-largest for any team in the league, showcasing the positive changes Harris and his group have implemented.
A Culture of Excellence
The Commanders’ rise in the NFLPA report card is not just a statistical improvement; it represents a fundamental change in the team’s culture. Harris and his ownership group have prioritized the well-being of the players, ensuring that every aspect of their experience, from training to travel, is first-class. The team earned an ‘A’ in categories such as ownership, head coach, team travel, and strength coaches, while receiving high marks in other areas like training staff, food/dining areas, and treatment of families. Head coach Dan Quinn, who led the team to their first NFC championship game since 1992, received the highest grade of all coaches, further solidifying the positive momentum.
Harris’ Vision for Improvement
Harris has been vocal about his commitment to turning the team around. Last year, he told reporters, "I’m not an F-minus guy. I didn’t even know you could get an F-minus. Obviously, we’ve jumped all over that." He acknowledged that the 2024 report card was based on interviews conducted around the time of the ownership change, and the team has been working diligently to address the issues raised. Investments in player facilities, travel support, and game day amenities have all contributed to a more supportive and professional environment.
Enhancing Player Experience
While the Commanders continue to navigate the process of building a new stadium, Harris and his group have focused on improving the existing facilities to enhance the player experience. Upgrades include better travel support, improved hot tubs at the team facility, and a new luxury tent at FedEx Field, where players’ families can meet privately on game day. These enhancements demonstrate a commitment to creating a more comfortable and enjoyable environment for the players, both on and off the field.
Recognition in the NFLPA Survey
The 2025 NFLPA report card survey, which saw participation from 1,695 players, was released just before the NFL scouting combine in Indianapolis. The survey provides valuable insights for free agents as they weigh their options and consider various factors when deciding which teams to sign with next. The Miami Dolphins topped the list, followed by the Minnesota Vikings, Atlanta Falcons, Las Vegas Raiders, and Los Angeles Chargers. The Commanders’ significant improvement places them in a strong position to attract top talent, further bolstering their efforts to build a winning team.
Contrast with Other Teams
The survey also highlighted the stark differences in player satisfaction across the league. While the Commanders and teams like the Falcons and Chargers saw considerable improvements, others struggled. The Pittsburgh Steelers, New York Jets, Cleveland Browns, New England Patriots, and Arizona Cardinals received the lowest grades. In the ownership category, the top five were Miami’s Stephen Ross, Minnesota’s Zygi Wilf, Atlanta’s Arthur Blank, Denver’s Greg Penner, and Chargers’ Dean Spanos. Conversely, the bottom five included New England Patriots’ Robert Kraft, Carolina Panthers’ David Tepper, Pittsburgh Steelers’ Art Rooney, Arizona Cardinals’ Michael Bidwill, and New York Jets’ Woody Johnson. These rankings underscore the importance of strong, player-focused leadership in the NFL.
Looking to the Future
The Washington Commanders’ journey under Josh Harris’ leadership is a story of transformation and commitment. By focusing on player well-being and creating a positive, supportive environment, the team has not only improved its standing in the NFLPA survey but has also laid the foundation for sustained success on the field. As the Commanders continue to make strategic investments and enhancements, the future looks bright for a franchise that is now truly player-first.
