Washington Redskins merchandise sales down 35%

By Cory Buck | Sep 10, 2014

Sep 7, 2014; Houston, TX, USA; Washington Redskins wide receiver DeSean Jackson (11) runs with the ball as Houston Texans cornerback Johnathan Joseph (24) defends during the game at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports /

Despite NFL merchandise sales as a whole rising 3% the Washington Redskins have seen their merchandise sales plummet by 35% in the last quarter, according to SportsSourceOne, which was cited by CNN Money. While the obvious answer would tie this drop in with the team’s controversial nickname, there are multiple factors in play.

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After losing its trademark with the US Patent and Trademark Office, the Washington franchise has also been shunned by several major broadcasters who refuse to use the team’s nickname. Now it appears that consumers are falling in line. “People are having a second thoughts about wearing a T-shirt with the logo or name that it has now been called racist,” said Matt Powell, senior analyst for SportsSourceOne.

However, the team’s 2013 record has also been factored in as a reason for the dip in sales. “Unfortunately, team performance on the field is a major factor in the apparel business, and a 3-13 season doesn’t do much to help sales,” said team spokesman Tony Wyllie. Washington also started this season 0-1 after a loss to the Houston Texans, and hasn’t been projected to mightily improve on its record from a year ago, which could also affect sales.

Powell added that the logo and nickname’s impact have yet to be fully realized, but likely it will further affect sales. “If I’m a retailer and I’m nervous about this logo, I’m taking a more cautious approach.”