nfl teams that don't end in s

Guri Bee

2 min read

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20-10-2024

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Beyond the "S": Uncovering the NFL's Unique Team Names

The NFL is filled with teams whose names end in "s", from the familiar Patriots and Steelers to the more recent Rams and Browns. But amidst this sea of pluralized monikers, there are a few teams that stand out with their unique naming conventions.

Let's dive into the world of NFL teams that don't end in "s", exploring their fascinating histories and the reasoning behind their unique names.

1. The Washington Commanders:

Q: Why doesn't the Washington Commanders' name end in "s"?

A: The Washington Commanders were initially known as the "Washington Redskins" until 2020, when the team decided to adopt a new name due to controversy surrounding the "Redskins" moniker. They chose "Commanders" to reflect the military history and culture of the Washington, D.C. area. The name doesn't end in "s" because it emphasizes the singular and commanding presence of the team.

Analysis: The name change highlights the NFL's evolution and sensitivity to cultural issues. Choosing "Commanders" provided a fresh start for the team while acknowledging the historical significance of the Washington, D.C. region.

2. The Houston Texans:

Q: Why is it "Texans" and not "Texan"?

A: While "Texan" is a commonly used term for a resident of Texas, the team chose "Texans" to represent the entire state and its proud football fanbase.

Analysis: Using the plural form creates a sense of unity and collective identity among Texans, highlighting their shared passion for the team.

3. The Arizona Cardinals:

Q: Why are the Cardinals named after a bird and not a "Cardinal"?

A: The team's name goes back to their origins in Chicago. The original owners, a group of businessmen, were inspired by the Chicago Cardinals baseball team, which was named after the baseball card, a playing card with the cardinal's color. Over time, the "card" part of the name was dropped, leaving just "Cardinals."

Analysis: The Cardinals' name is a fascinating example of a name that evolved organically and has retained its unique appeal. It's also a testament to the history of the NFL, where teams were often named after pre-existing entities.

4. The Miami Dolphins:

Q: Why is it "Dolphins" and not "Dolphin"?

A: The Miami Dolphins are named after the playful, intelligent marine mammals that frequent the waters off the coast of Florida. The plural form was likely chosen to evoke a sense of strength and unity, emphasizing the teamwork and collective spirit of the dolphins as they work together in pods.

Analysis: The team's name perfectly encapsulates the spirit of Miami, a vibrant city known for its beaches and coastal charm. The choice of "Dolphins" effectively captures the playful and agile nature of the team's play style.

Beyond the "S" and into the Future:

While the NFL is dominated by teams ending in "s," these unique names add a touch of individuality and historical context to the league. Their names not only reflect the team's identity but also tell the story of their origins and the communities they represent. As the NFL continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see if more teams embrace unconventional names and forge new paths in the world of team branding.