The U.S. attorney's office in the Eastern District of Virginia has opened a criminal investigation into allegations that the Washington Commanders engaged in financial improprieties, according to two sources.

Prosecutors are focused on several areas. The inquiry was triggered by a letter the House Committee on Oversight and Reform sent to the Federal Trade Commission in April that alleged deceptive business practices.

Asked Wednesday whether the league is aware of the federal criminal investigation, NFL spokesperson Brian McCarthy said: "We will decline comment."