Source -- Washington Commanders spend $100 million on land in Virginia for possible stadium

The Washington Commanders paid more than $100 million for land in Virginia, a possible next step in building a new stadium, as well as numerous retail shops, restaurants and apartments.

A source with knowledge of the purchase says the Commanders paid around $100 million for 200 acres. The deal was completed late last week, but has not yet been filed with Prince William County. One source said it was the team's preferred site for a new stadium.

There is a chance the franchise will buy another 65 to 70 acres at a site that is approximately 23 miles from Washington, D.C., and is right off an exit on I-95 in Virginia. It would be about 80 miles from the city.

The Commanders like how the site can be developed. A source says that their plans include a 60,000-seat domed stadium, an amphitheater that seats between 15,000 and 20,000, a small indoor music arena, high-end retail shops, and bars. The roof would be translucent and the stadium's facade could change colors, for example burgundy at night.

FedEx Field was built by Jack Kent Cooke and opened in 1997. The team's contract to play at this site expires in 2026, but they own the stadium and the surrounding property. If needed, they can stay on longer.

Before they agree to a site, the team needs to find out how much money the state and Prince William County are willing to commit.

There are options in Maryland and the District of Columbia as well as other sites in Virginia. $400 million would be spent to develop the area around FedEx Field in Landover, Maryland. The domed stadium would be built by the team. Washington is looking at land near their current practice facility.

The RFK Stadium site is where the team would like to return to. Because it is on federal land, there are a lot of governmental hurdles that make that a longshot.

The legislature of Virginia is considering creating a Stadium Authority that would authorize money to help pay for a new stadium. $350 million from Virginia would be given to the Commanders.

It is not clear how much money the Commanders would spend on their own.

There are ongoing investigations into Commanders owner Dan Snyder. Both Congress and the NFL are looking into allegations of sexual harassment. They responded to the allegations of financial improprieties with a 105-page letter sent to the Federal Trade Commission and signed affidavits that they say proves their innocence. The financial claims will be investigated by the attorney generals of Virginia and the District of Columbia.