Sean Taylor was just 24 when intruders broke into his home and fatally shot him eight years ago. Taylor was a free safety for the Washington Redskins, one of the best in the NFL. The NFL and its players have taken tough hits since — from Junior Seau‘s tragic suicide to the concussion epidemic and beyond — but Taylor’s death stands out for its sadness. Taylor’s murder was a purely evil act perpetrated against someone so young with such a bright future. (Five defendants have been sentenced to long prison terms in the case.)
Taylor is probably best remembered outside of DC for a hit he made in the Pro Bowl (see below). But for Redskins fans this kind of Taylor pursue-and-punish was a common occurrence. Taylor’s style, enthusiasm, skills and hustle are still missed each week. He’d likely still be playing now at 32. On his way, as former All-Pro QB Daunte Culpepper said, to “being the greatest safety ever.” Here are some shout outs to the late Sean Taylor. RIP, No. 21.
One of the greatest to ever do it. What is your favorite memory of Sean Taylor? #RIP21 https://t.co/Q9i9fSnGSC
— Washington Redskins (@Redskins) November 27, 2015
Rest in Peace to Sean Taylor. Was on his way to being the greatest safety ever. Taken from the world too soon.#RIP21 pic.twitter.com/GMJ1Oacipi — Daunte Culpepper (@DCulpepper8) November 27, 2015
#RIP to Sean Taylor. We miss you fam. ? #Canes pic.twitter.com/rBWpM1DDSd
— Jarrett W. Payton (@paytonsun) November 27, 2015
#gonebutnotforgotten #lastofadyingbreed #GOAT #3Kings #RIP #8years #memorieswontfade #HTTR pic.twitter.com/P2DTYfjCdW — Clinton Portis (@TheRealC_Portis) November 27, 2015
