CBS NFL host James Brown: Redskins should change their name

James Brown, host of The NFL Today on CBS, appeared on a panel hosted by CBS News on Thursday commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act of

James Brown, host of The NFL Today on CBS, appeared on a panel hosted by CBS News on Thursday commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Near the end of the 20-minute discussion, moderator Bob Schieffer asked Brown for his thoughts on the controversy over the Washington Redskins' name.

"If the name is offensive to a group of people, then do the right thing and change the name," Brown said. "It’s as simple as that. I know people will engage in an argument and say, well it hasn’t been an issue all this time. Yeah, well, the civil rights issue was one where ‘that’s just the way it was’ for a long period of time, right? So that holds no basis and substance to me." 

More: Granddaughter of first Redskins owner wants team name changed​

Critics of Washington's team name have alleged that the nickname is racist and offensive to Native Americans, while defenders -- including team owner Dan Snyder -- say the name upholds tradition and honors Native Americans.  

Sean McManus, Chairman of CBS Sports, said earlier this month that the network would leave the decision whether to use the name up to its broadcasters.

CBS holds NFL broadcast rights through 2022. 

Brown's comments are at the 17:15 mark of the video below:

- Dan Gartland