BETHESDA, Md. — As controversy and a continually worsening record sour the Redskins’ season, fans are not as enthusiastic to buy jerseys, tickets and team merchandise. That lackluster attitude is affecting many retailers who are smarting from the team’s troubles.
Even though he’s a fan, Ben Shriner is not surprised to see Redskins gear discounted at Modell’s Sporting Goods in Bethesda, Md.
“I think they’ve given up. Mike Shanahan is fighting for his job, I think. And with Cousins starting, I think it’s a good thing, Shriner says.
As Allison Powell picks up a Redskins gift for her friend, she says seeing the yellow sales tags is both good and bad because it saves her money, but means the team is losing.
“It definitely impacts sales. People are excited when they win and obviously less excited when they are losing,” says Modell’s Bethesda Manager Chad Thompson.
Everything from Redskins hats and fleece blankets to winter gloves and jerseys are on sale in the burgundy and gold section of the store.
“A little abnormal for right now for it to be discounted as it is. They usually do have this time of year marked down and on sale for the holidays, but usually not the quantity that we have here,” Thompson says.
Discounted clothing is one thing, but fans can’t believe that StubHub.com still shows upwards of 5,500 tickets available for the Cowboys game at FedEx Field.
“It’s one of the biggest games of the season for the Redskins. That’s the game everyone looks forward to. I’m shocked,” Shriner says.
Follow @WTOP on Twitter.
