WASHINGTON — The Washington Commanders have taken down a controversial memorial installation for Sean Taylor and announced plans to build a new statue honoring the iconic former free safety.
The announcement comes nearly two years after the team first unveiled a memorial to Taylor on the 15th anniversary of his death. That memorial was criticized by both fans and players. Now, the team is admitting the original installation "fell short in honoring" him.
"After careful consideration, we have decided as an organization to remove the Sean Taylor installation from Commanders Field," a spokesperson for the team said Saturday. "We realize that the installation fell short in honoring one of our franchise’s most iconic players. Together with the Taylor family, we are working on a plan, which includes unveiling a statue that will rightfully celebrate the legacy and impact that Sean had on our organization, fanbase and community."
Jackie Taylor, the late player's daughter who was only 18 months old when her father was shot and killed during an attempted robbery at his Miami home in 2007, said she was thankful for the team's "commitment to keep my dad's legacy alive."
In a video statement posted by the Commanders on X, Jackie said she looks forward to "sharing plans in the future and learning more about my dad through this process. I’m forever grateful for the outpouring of love and support from this special fan base. I’m filled with gratitude to know that my dad will forever be a part of the burgundy and gold family."
Although specific plans for the new memorial and when it will be unveiled have not been revealed, a spokesperson said the Commanders "are committed to honoring our legends in a first-class manner."
Sean Taylor was taken fifth overall by Washington in the 2004 NFL Draft out of the University of Miami, where he was part of the Hurricanes’ 2001 National Championship-winning team. He played in four NFL seasons, making 55 regular season appearances and earning Pro Bowl selections in 2006 and 2007. In that time, Taylor made 299 tackles, recorded 12 interceptions and forced eight fumbles. He was 24 years old at the time of his death.