“Major Tuddy” unveiled as Washington Commanders’ absurd new mascot, could draw lawsuit from former players
Major Tuddy made his debut as the Washington Commanders mascot this past Sunday. While fans had long-awaited a mascot, judging by both social media and the in-stadium reaction, the hog-inspired get up wasn’t all that well-received.
Major Tuddy ran out to less than raucous applause:
I was wondering why Washington had never had a mascot until now. Then I realized that it’s because it would have been pretty damn racist, even by their organizational standards.
The concept here is actually pretty good. Washington fans have been calling their squad some variation of “The Hogs” for decades now. So having their mascot reflect that is a great idea.
However, the execution leaves a bit to be desired.
First, the offensive linemen that spawned the legendary Hogs moniker trademarked “Hogs” and “Original Hogs.” This was done through their company O-Line Entertainment.
“If they go forward on Sunday and make the hog their mascot and try to trademark it, we are going to be forced into trademark infringement litigation,” O-Line Entertainment attorney Seth Berenzweig said to Front Office Sports.
Second is the look of the mascot itself.
Major Tuddy looks closer to a dilapidated Chuck-E-Cheese animatron than a brand-new NFL mascot. His whole look is lame, with the only saving grace being the helmet he’s rocking.
Also, why is it not Commander Tuddy? I get trying to avoid being too on the nose with everything, but that seems like it was sitting right there for the taking and they didn’t even consider it.
I personally still kind of like Major Tuddy. Is it mostly because his unveiling has angered Washington fans? Maybe. That definitely sounds like something I would say.
At least the organization stopped short of insulting a dead man and his family this time. They’re learning! (sort of).
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Mandatory Credit: NBC4 Sports
