Jason Kelce Uses Old Redskins Name on Air, Apologizes During Commanders Broadcast
NFL analyst Jason Kelce accidentally called the Washington Commanders the Redskins during a broadcast, then quickly apologized, highlighting the ongoing sensitivity around the team's former name.
Jason Kelce briefly reverted to the Washington Commanders' former nickname while calling a game for NFL Network, then immediately apologized in a moment that underscored how sensitive the team's rebranding remains. The former Philadelphia Eagles center, now in his third year as a booth analyst, made the slip during the Commanders' matchup against the Indianapolis Colts.
Kelce was praising Washington's secondary when he said, «The Redskins right now are doing a great job of not only staying tight, but making the play when the ball is in the receiver's hand and keeping it short of the sticks.» Play-by-play announcer Dave Pasch quickly corrected him: «Commanders. You did it.»
A flustered Kelce responded, «What'd I do?» When Pasch repeated that he had said «Redskins,» Kelce exclaimed, «Oh, my gosh! I almost made it out.» The booth, which also included Hall of Fame quarterback Kurt Warner, had apparently discussed the possibility of accidentally using the old name before the game. Pasch revealed, «Yeah, the three of us had a little gentleman's bet who would be first.»
The moment highlighted the lingering divide over the franchise's name change. The team was known as the Redskins from 1937 until 2020, when the nickname was dropped amid an outcry from mostly liberal voices who argued it was a racist insult. Native American groups have both supported and opposed that view, depending on the organization and its agenda.
Kelce, who spent 13 seasons with the Eagles, played against Washington during nine of those years. Many players who wore the Indian head helmet logo—inspired by Blackfeet Chief John Two Guns White Calf—and heard the «Hail to the Redskins» fight song at home games still hold allegiance to the old nickname. A poll on whether to restore the name would likely show a large portion of respondents favoring its return, though current owner Josh Harris has the final say and has shown no indication he plans to bring it back.
The NFL Network booth handled the flub with a lighthearted tone, led by Pasch's gentle correction. Kelce's apology was brief and seemed aimed at avoiding any prolonged controversy. The incident quickly became a talking point online, with some praising Kelce's authenticity and others criticizing the use of the former name.
For Kelce, the broadcast misstep is a minor bump in his transition from All-Pro center to media personality. He remains highly regarded for his offensive line analysis, a skill honed over a 13-year career. The Commanders, meanwhile, continue to build their identity under Harris, who purchased the team in 2023. The old name remains a sensitive subject for many fans, but the franchise has moved on—at least officially.
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