The “Washington Bravehearts” name was registered by a patent investor earlier this month, according to a report. The investor is a neighbor to Redskins owner Dan Snyder, drawing speculation that the Redskins could change its name.
TMZ reported that Aris Mardirossian, the investor, lives a “few doors down” from Snyder.
The website reported that Mardirossian is looking to use the name for “entertainment in the nature of football games.” He also registered Washington Brave Hearts, LLC on the same day–Oct. 17.
As the International Business Times noted, it is unclear if Snyder and Mardirossian have a business relationship. They are both University of Maryland alumni, however, but attended the college at different times. It’s also unclear if they know each other.
Several sports writers, including Sport Illustrated’s Peter King, have refused to use the term “Redskins” in their articles. President Barack Obama also said that if he were in charge of the team, he would likely change the name.
Snyder recently defended the Redskins name amid public outcry.
“Our franchise has a great history, tradition and legacy representing our proud alumni and literally tens of millions of loyal fans worldwide,” Snyder said in a statement to CNN. “We are proud of our team and the passion of our loyal fans. Our fans sing ‘Hail to the Redskins’ in celebration at every Redskins game. They speak proudly of ‘Redskins Nation’ in honor of a sports team they love.”
