Yes, Commanders should go back to their old name. But Trump should be quiet.
I do think both the Washington Commanders and the Cleveland Guardians should return to their former names, as President Donald Trump has said − though I think he should stay out of the conversation.
The fact is, rebranding of a professional sports team is extremely difficult. You cannot blame either team for wanting to reverse course, regardless of whether you believe the original names are offensive.
Do I think too big of a deal was made over it to start with? Absolutely − especially in the case of the Cleveland Indians. How is that offensive? With "Redskins," I get it. But think about intent.
My guess is the intent was to honor, not disparage. But the average American will always try to find fault in things, as it helps to continue to divide instead of unite, which is the sad state of affairs in America today.
Another view: Commanders and Guardians don't need to revert to racist names to be great again | Opinion
As for whether any other teams should change their names, yes, I find 'Steelers' to be an out-of-date term and offensive to people who in the past depended on the steel industry. As my family is originally from Poland, I would be honored to have the Steelers changed to "Pollacks." Yes, the Pittsburgh Pollacks sounds amazing and would be a great privilege for the people who have been seen as the lower tier of Europe for the past 500 years.
Are NFL and MLB team names important? Share your thoughts here. | Opinion Forum
As for President Trump's role, I don't think he should have any say in this at all! He is simply using this as an effort to deflect things haunting him from his past. It's so evident, it's offensive to the general public.
The man thinks everyone who isn't related to him are idiots and pawns of his world. I'm not political, but I just think he has overstepped his boundaries various times since taking office. Plus he still holds a grudge against the NFL as he failed in his bid to purchase the Buffalo Bills.
— Robert Ryczko, Reno, Nevada
This piece was submitted as part of USA TODAY's Forum, a new space for conversation. See what we're talking about at usatoday.com/forum and share your perspective at forum@usatoday.com.
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