Analyst urges Commanders to play last big card to seal D.C. stadium deal

There was an enormous sense of excitement when the Washington Commanders revealed emotionally charged stadium plans for their triumphant return to D.C. But it's not a done deal just yet.

One Commanders analyst believes it's time for Josh Harris to play the obvious ace up his sleeve to get the agreement rubber-stamped.

The fact Harris chose the old RFK Stadium site for their ambitious project tugged at the heartstrings of fans. This was the scene of Washington's glory days. It's steeped in history, and the Commanders want it to be the home of their potentially prosperous future.

Although the proposals have received widespread approval, it's also had some pushback. The amount of public money attached is causing some concern among the city council. They are seeking a better deal with the Commanders picking up even more of the tab. It's a precarious situation right now, but Thom Loverro from The Washington Times believes the franchise has one more card to play.

Columnist urges Commanders to use Magic Johnson's influence for successful stadium vote

Loverro revealed that Magic Johnson hasn't been front and center. He hasn't spoken to any councilors to lobby for the stadium. It might help, it might not. However, the analyst thought the Pro Basketball Hall of Famer's charisma could assist greatly at this critical stage.

But if there is a sense of real urgency, it would seem like a good idea to have a powerful figure like Magic Johnson making a personal stadium pitch to District officials. I reached out to a number of council members. None of them, including Council Chairman Phil Mendelson’s office, said they had any contact or discussions with Magic. If it were me, I would have set up a pop-up office for Magic outside the Wilson Building. But that’s just me. If the Commanders truly feel “blindsided” and “outraged,” as the mayor has said about the stadium deal being in danger, then it’s time to give the ball to Magic.Thom Loverro

Johnson is a minority stakeholder in Washington's ownership group. His mere presence instantly legitimized the project, which is a testament to the esteem in which he is held both in the sports and business world. The billionaire is a busy man, of course, but lending his weight to the proposals before the vote might be enough to tip the scales.

It'll be interesting to see how things unfold. The Commanders won't want the decision-makers to drag their feet. They could even have contingency plans to walk away if relationships become strained. That wouldn't be a good look for anyone, so the common goal is to get this resolved and allow Washington's football franchise to come home at long last.

And who knows, perhaps the Magic Man's influence could help turn the tide.

More Commanders news and analysis