Commanders rank dead last in NFL union’s report card; ‘entire facility’ needs fixing

Dan Snyder is gone, but the Washington Commanders are still recovering from his tenure. Where do they stand? Last, when it comes to the NFL Players Association’s annual team report card that came out Wednesday.

Washington’s players cited concerns about sewage leaks in the locker room, treatment of their families during games, and an understaffed roster of trainers.

The NFLPA surveyed 1,706 players and asked them to grade their teams across 11 categories. The Commanders graded 32nd, just below the Kansas City Chiefs. At the top were the Miami Dolphins.

Though new owner Josh Harris scored a B with players, Washington’s athletes voiced issues with team facilities, the training staff and travel accommodations.

“The organization received low marks across the board last year, so there is no shortage of issues that need marked improvement after years of neglect,” the NFLPA report said. “The one bright spot for the club is the players’ ranking of the Commanders’ strength coaches, with 98% of player respondents saying that they get the best possible individualized plan.”

Players told their union that they’d grown tired of issues within the building. They said their locker room is too cramped and had multiple sewage leaks in 2023. The athletes also said the team’s weight room and training facilities were underwhelming for an NFL franchise.

“When asked what the number one issue respondents want to prioritize for fixing, most players couldn’t come up with just one. Instead, the common answer was the entire facility,” the report said. “The players understand that the new club ownership didn’t create these current problems, and they are hopeful that the new team ownership is willing to do what it takes to fix them.”

The Commanders received an F or F- grade for their treatment of families, locker room, training room, training staff and team travel.

Washington is one of only four NFL teams without a day care or private room for players’ children and family members during games. However, some returning players did say they appreciated an uptick in events for family members under the new ownership.

The Commanders’ travel schedule was the worst in the league, the survey said. Half of Washington’s players said they lacked personal space on the team’s plane.

Harris received an 8.6 out of 10 rating from players, who said he was willing to invest in team facilities. On Wednesday, the Commanders announced $75 million in planned renovations at their stadium in Landover, Maryland. The upgrades will include revamped water and mechanical systems.