Today, a report on ESPN states that the Washington Commanders have purchased more than 200 acres in Prince William County. This could be a potential step in building a new stadium, in addition to other amenities, such as restaurants and shops.

The source that revealed the story also stated that the Commanders paid more than $100 million for approximately 200 acres. One source stated that the land is the team’s preferred site for a new stadium, with plans to include it becoming a domed facility. They have been located in Maryland since 1997, when the late owner Jack Kent Cooke built what is now FedEx Field. Although they are still looking at other locations within the DMV area, the contract to play at the current site ends in 2026. The state of Maryland is willing to pay $400 million to develop the land around FedEx Field, and Loudoun County still remains an option. What is still uncertain is how much the Commanders themselves will spend on a new stadium.

What will be interesting to note are two things: for starters, how will the ongoing investigations against Commanders owner Daniel Snyder will proceed? Currently, he is being investigated for sexual misconduct allegations, as well as financial improprieties. Also, how will the local community respond to it, as there has been a mixed reaction to having the longtime NFL franchise set up roots in Prince William County?