Jason Wright, the first Black team president in NFL history who played a key role in the Washington Commanders’ efforts to overhaul their workplace culture, will be stepping down from his position immediately and will leave the organization by the end of the upcoming season, as confirmed by Wright and Commanders owner Josh Harris.
Wright will transition to the role of senior adviser while continuing his current duties as the team’s de facto president, focusing on the search for a new stadium site and naming rights partner. Harris and Tad Brown will lead the search for the Commanders’ next president.
“This feels like the right moment for me to explore my next leadership opportunity,” Wright stated in a written message to The Washington Post. “I am extremely grateful to my Commanders colleagues, our fans, and this community for all that we have accomplished over the past four years, and am looking forward to a very successful season for the Burgundy and Gold.”
Upon the completion of his contract next month, Wright met with the team’s business staff to inform them about his departure. If he secures a new position before the season concludes, the team will facilitate his swift exit.
Harris expressed gratitude for Wright’s impact on the organization during his four-year tenure, stating, “He stepped in at a time of immense challenge and has led this organization through an incredible transformation that set the stage for everything that is to come.”
Wright’s exit marks the latest significant change in the franchise’s operations under Harris, who acquired the team from Daniel Snyder for a record $6.05 billion. Since taking over last year, Harris has made substantial changes, including hiring a new general manager and coach and reshaping the front office and coaching staff.
Wright was instrumental in the team’s rebrand to the Commanders and has been pivotal in attempting to restore the franchise’s corporate partnerships and increase ticket and suite sales. He also played a key role in efforts to secure a new stadium site, with negotiations ongoing.
While new business partners were added under Wright’s leadership, FedEx, a significant sponsor, cut ties with the team late last year. Despite the challenges, Wright remains optimistic about the organization’s future, particularly in finalizing a new stadium deal.
The Commanders have seen positive growth in revenue from ticket sales and new club seats, along with securing new corporate partners and investing in stadium and facility improvements. Wright remains proud of the progress made during his time with the team and is eager to assist in completing the new stadium deal under Harris’ leadership.
