WASHINGTON, D.C., USA — Fans didn't love the timing of the Sean Taylor jersey retirement announcement, just four days before Washington was set to face Kansas City on alumni weekend.
The announcement arrived just as the Washington franchise was already knee-deep in hot water over emails exchanged between former Washington General Manager Bruce Allen and former Raiders Head Coach Jon Gruden.
The Washington Football Team apologized to its fanbase and will move forward with retiring Taylor's jersey number on Sunday.
Taylor was a beloved safety whose life and career were cut short when he was shot and killed at just 24 years old during a home invasion in 2007.
Taylor's parents and daughter will attend the ceremonies. Before the game, there will be a tribute video played and at halftime his jersey retirement ceremony will take place at FedExField. Fans will be given #21 towels in Taylor's memory.
Players and coaches shared their memories of Taylor leading up to the ceremony.
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"He was just an absolute force on the field," Washington Defensive Coordinator, Jack Del Rio, said. "He was a great, great player. That's great they are doing that. It's awesome. I drive in every day on Sean Taylor Road, so I think it's very appropriate."
Del Rio's defense has been gearing up to face Kansas City's high-powered offense. The Chiefs are averaging just over 30 points per game and 420 yards per game this season.
While quarterback Patrick Mahomes hasn't been playing to the high level we've seen in recent years, he's still one of the Top 5 quarterbacks in the league and Washington knows he could provide them with some problems on Sunday.
"These guys are very explosive. That quarterback extends plays, has a tremendous ability to elude the rush and throw the ball a long way," Del Rio said.
Washington linebacker, Cole Holcomb added, "There's going to be times when he's going to extend plays with his legs so we are going to have to have good, tight coverage. If we are going to play a certain coverage, if he scrambles then its plaster time, and every time when you think the play is over, it's never over. You have to play until that whistle blows."
Sunday's matchup will be televised on WUSA9-TV. Kick-off is set for 1pm.