Jason Kelce, the former NFL player and current analyst, has found himself at the centre of mixed reactions following a slip of the tongue during a live broadcast. While commentating on the Washington Commanders’ game against the Indianapolis Colts on 4 October 2026, Kelce accidentally referred to the team by its former name, a term deemed offensive and outdated.
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During the game, which took place in London, the 38-year-old Kelce was analysing a play made by the Commanders when he mistakenly referred to them as the “Redskins.” His remark drew immediate attention, and his co-host Dave Pasch quickly corrected him. Kelce, momentarily caught off guard, asked, “What’d I do?” Upon realisation of his error, he expressed disbelief and remarked, “Oh my god, I almost made it out,” before issuing an on-air apology: “Sorry, Washington.”
This awkward moment comes just a week after Kelce was playfully reprimanded by his ESPN colleague Pat McAfee for using “we” when discussing the Philadelphia Eagles. Kelce, a former centre for the Eagles, appeared to forget his current neutral analyst role while reminiscing about his playing days. “We played really well,” Kelce stated, which prompted McAfee to quip about the frequent use of “we.” In a show of humility, Kelce hung his head and apologised to fans of the Chicago Bears for his slip.
Kelce’s blunders highlight a growing debate surrounding the use of team names with controversial histories. The Washington franchise changed its name in 2020 after years of criticism regarding the previous moniker. The team briefly adopted the name “Washington Football Team” before officially being named the Washington Commanders in February 2022. This change was positioned as a long-term solution, yet recent ownership changes have spurred speculation about a possible rebranding in the future.
The discussion around sports naming conventions is not new, as many professional teams around the world are grappling with similar issues. The Washington Commanders’ previous name had long been seen as derogatory towards Native Americans. The decision to move away from that name was met with approval from various advocacy groups, though some fans remained attached to the franchise’s historic moniker.
Kelce’s commentary has opened a dialogue about the importance of language in sports. One analyst on set with him, Kurt Warner, noted that the trio had even engaged in a playful “gentleman’s bet” regarding who would be the first to slip up and use the outdated name during their broadcast. Such instances underscore the persistent legacy of past names and the challenges of modernising language in the public sphere.
As sports figures and analysts continue to navigate these sensitive topics, the responsibility to respect both a team’s identity and its historical implications becomes paramount. Many sports commentators find themselves walking a fine line, attempting to honour tradition while also embracing contemporary social conscience.
In the wake of Kelce’s slip, fans and commentators alike have taken to social media to share their thoughts. Some have expressed understanding, noting the difficulty of breaking longstanding habits, while others feel that such mistakes should not occur from high-profile figures. As these conversations unfold, Kelce’s gaffe serves as a reminder of the broader issues at play in the world of sports today.
As Jason Kelce settles into his role as an analyst, it is likely that he will need to remain vigilant about language and the implications of the terms he uses. The future of team names and their meanings continues to evolve, reflecting broader societal changes. Kelce’s recent experiences may serve as a learning opportunity not only for him but for others in the industry, highlighting the importance of sensitivity and awareness when discussing sports teams and their identities.