William Liang-Imagn Images
Sep 12, 2026; Pasadena, California, USA; San Diego State quarterback Jayden Denegal (4) gestures during the first half against UCLA at the Rose Bowl.
Could the San Diego State Aztecs be the latest in the long line of sports teams to switch their mascot to a more socially acceptable figure? If their new uniforms are any indication, the answer is “yes.”
Recent years have seen the Cleveland Indians become the Cleveland Guardians, the Washington Redskins turn into the Washington Commanders, and the Ole Miss Rebels ditch their Colonel Reb mascot in favor of Tony the Landshark.
Earlier this week, San Diego State announced a new uniform and helmet for its football program that swaps out traditional Aztec symbolism for a Jaguar instead.
The Age of the Jaguar Begins TODAY 🐆#AgeOfTheJaguar 🐆 x #AztecFAST 🍢 x #BeTheA1pha 🐺 x #TheClimb 📈 pic.twitter.com/LHQwHiG0MA
— San Diego State Football (@AztecFB) September 16, 2026
San Diego State Explains New ‘Age Of The Jaguar’ Uniforms
The Aztecs are set to debut the new uniforms against James Madison on Saturday
According to a press release from the school, “The bold uniform design is inspired by Ocelotl, the Aztec word for jaguar, deepening the ways in which the university honors its Aztec identity.
“…The Ocelotl mark connects the design to the jaguar’s historic symbolism: power, valor, and military prowess, and linked to health, grit, and perseverance. In Aztec tradition, Ocelotl represents Tezcatlipoca, god of the night sky, memory, and time. The jaguar also represents elite warriors who embodied discipline, bravery, and strength in battle.”
While the press release seemingly indicates that the new uniforms are just an alternative to the typical Aztecs uniforms, some fans believe otherwise.
San Diego State is (unsuccessfully) soft launching a woke rebrand from the aztecs to the jaguars 😭😭 https://t.co/jHmuijxnnY
— Gabe Iguodala🔸(CFB Analyst) (@GabrielIguodala) September 17, 2026
“Love the red jersey, not so much the jaguar logo or the helmet. But we roll nonetheless,” one fan responded.
“Did Aztecs get canceled? I don’t get it,” said another.
So, what do we think? Is San Diego State test-running a mascot change? Or is this just a one-off change? Let us know in the comments below.