The Washington Commanders announced that they will erect a statue in honor of the late safety and Ring of Fame honoree Sean Taylor to replace the original memorial at Commanders Field, which has already been removed.
Taylor’s daughter Jackie will help design the statue.
“I am grateful to Josh Harris and the Commanders family for their continued commitment to keeping my father’s legacy alive,” Jackie Taylor said in a statement. “I look forward to sharing plans in the future and learning more about my father through this process.”
In a statement from a Commanders spokesperson, the team said: “We recognize that the installation is not sufficient to accommodate one of our franchise’s most legendary players.”
“Together with the Taylor family, we are working on a plan that includes the unveiling of a statue that will honor the legacy and impact Sean had on our organization, our fan base and our community. The Washington Commanders are committed to honoring our legends in a world-class manner.”
Taylor played for Washington in all four seasons of his NFL career. After being selected fifth overall in the 2004 NFL Draft, Taylor established himself as one of the league’s best young safeties and a fan favorite. After a successful rookie year, Taylor started 15 games and led Washington to its first playoff victory in six years.
On November 27, 2006, Taylor died after being shot during an attempted robbery at his home in Florida.
Taylor was posthumously honored by the NFL and selected to the All-Pro second team in 2007. The following year, Washington announced that he would be inducted into the Washington Ring of Fame as only the 43rd member.
Taylor’s jersey number 21 was retired by Washington during the 2021 season, making him the fourth player in franchise history to receive the honor.
“I am forever grateful for the love and support of this special fan base,” said Jackie Taylor. “I am filled with gratitude that my father will forever be a part of the burgundy and gold family.”
