Former quarterback of the Washington football team, Robert Griffin III, has expressed his enthusiasm about the prospect of potentially being part of the ownership group bidding for the team. Griffin believes that this would be a full-circle moment for him to help build a winning organization that the fans deserve. He is in talks with a group led by Josh Harris, Mitchell Rales, and Magic Johnson.
Bids Submitted to Purchase Washington Commanders NFL Team
Griffin’s excitement comes amid multiple bids being submitted to purchase the Washington Commanders, including one from the Harris-led group that meets current owner Dan Snyder’s $6 billion asking price. Another bid is reportedly led by Canadian billionaire Steve Apostolopoulos and Houston Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta. Any sale requires 24 yes votes for approval following a review by the NFL’s finance committee.
Snyder has been engulfed in controversy following reports on harassment and a toxic work environment within the team, leading to widespread calls for him to relinquish control of the team. This has culminated in Snyder facing various civil suits and investigations, including one from former U.S. Attorney Mary Jo White, who is investigating various aspects of the organization stemming from a congressional review into workplace misconduct.
Griffin Advocates for Snyder to Sell Washington Football Team
While acknowledging that he does not have any direct involvement in the bidding process, Griffin stated his belief that Snyder should sell the team due to ongoing issues within the organization. He cited these issues as having caused a “dark cloud” to descend over the team since his departure in 2015.
Griffin thinks that new ownership would help restore some luster to the Washington football team and thinks that fans are ready to move on from the current situation. He also made a comment about Snyder, expressing his belief that fans will throw a parade when he sells the team. It is unknown how Griffin’s relationship with Snyder ended, but his tell-all book about his time in Washington may have caused tension.
Griffin’s Potential Involvement with Commanders Ownership Group
While talks continue, it remains unclear if Griffin is officially part of the Harris-led group or merely in negotiations. He has expressed interest in becoming a minority owner of the team and has mentioned the possibility of playing for the team again.
Washington fans have mixed feelings about Griffin’s potential involvement with the team’s ownership group. Some are excited about the prospect of having a former player who understands the organization’s culture being involved in its management, while others see him as a controversial figure who may be more focused on his own interests.
Challenges Facing New Ownership
If either bid is accepted, it would set a record price paid for a North American sports franchise. The new owner will need to resume plans for a new stadium, determine possible changes with the coaching and football staff, and win back the fan base. Without Snyder’s influence, it is possible that the team will be able to attract more star players.
Another challenge facing new ownership will be to determine whether to pick up defensive end Chase Young’s fifth-year option, which may wait until there is more clarity on the ownership situation.
Conclusion
The future of the Washington Commanders football team remains uncertain as various groups continue to bid for ownership. Robert Griffin III’s potential involvement in an ownership group led by Josh Harris, Mitchell Rales, and Magic Johnson appears to have generated interest from fans and critics alike. Any new owner will face significant challenges in restoring the club’s reputation and bringing back fans who have been dissatisfied with recent years’ performance. However, new ownership could bring a fresh start and renewed hope for Washington Commanders fans.
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