The Washington Commanders have a new owner. A group led by Josh Harris purchased the Commanders in July for a record $6.05 billion. This week, Forbes released its annual NFL team values.
As usual, the Dallas Cowboys came in at No. 1. But where did the Commanders rank after a record-breaking sale price?
Buy Commanders TicketsWashington came in at No. 8, with a value of $6.05 billion. The Commanders fall two spots, with the Las Vegas Raiders and New York Jets passing them in 2023.
Considering Washington’s issues under Daniel Snyder, a terrible home stadium, lagging ticket sales, etc. and a fractured fan base, continuing to be ranked inside the top 10 over the years was impressive. It’s one of the reasons why the Commanders were considered a sleeping giant.
Harris and his partners knew they were entering the perfect situation. Anyone replacing Snyder would be treated as a hero. That’s been true, and Harris has helped himself by interacting with fans on multiple occasions, including buying them beer.
Business has already picked up since Harris took over in late July. Washington has announced three new corporate sponsorships that include Verizon and Anheuser-Busch. Additionally, season ticket and suite sales are on the rise.
Harris and team president Jason Wright have said the Week 1 home opener against the Arizona Cardinals is trending toward a sellout, as the Commanders just released some standing-room-only tickets this week.
standing room only tix just released for Week 1 😈
get 'em before they're gone » https://t.co/vfGwQ8g069 pic.twitter.com/15YFK91Roo
— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) August 30, 2023
The Cowboys’ value increased from $8 billion in 2022 to $9 billion in 2023. A big reason for the increase was the Commanders’ sale.
From Forbes:
The average NFL team is now worth a record $5.1 billion, 14% more than last year, powered by more television money and the $6.05 billion sale of the Washington Commanders—at 11 times revenue—to a group led by billionaire Josh Harris in July.
Imagine Washington’s eventual value when the franchise finally lands a new stadium.
