Following significant backlash regarding a tribute to the late two-time Pro Bowl safety Sean Taylor, the Washington Commanders have decided to remove the installation permanently and are planning to erect a statue in its place.
“We have carefully considered this decision and have determined that the Sean Taylor installation does not adequately honor one of our franchise’s most legendary players,” a team spokesperson stated. “We are collaborating with the Taylor family to develop a plan that involves unveiling a statue to properly celebrate Sean’s legacy and his impact on our organization, fans, and community. The Washington Commanders remain dedicated to honoring our legends with the respect they deserve.”
Additionally, Taylor’s daughter, Jackie, will be involved in the statue’s design process. Jackie was just 18 months old when her father was tragically murdered at 24 during an attempted home invasion on November 27, 2007.
The initial installation was revealed in November 2022 during a game against the Atlanta Falcons, while the team was still under the ownership of Daniel Snyder, who faced criticism for poor relations with fans and for fostering a toxic workplace environment, resulting in a $10 million fine from the NFL and allegations of sexual harassment.
In July 2023, NFL owners approved the sale of the team to a group led by billionaire Josh Harris.
“I’m grateful to Josh Harris and the Commanders organization for their ongoing dedication to preserving my dad’s legacy,” Jackie Taylor expressed in a statement. “I look forward to sharing future plans and discovering more about my dad through this process.”
The installation that has been removed was launched on short notice and consisted of a mannequin-style figure wearing a Washington jersey with Taylor’s No. 21. However, the jersey was from the incorrect era, as Taylor’s playing days were during Reebok’s term as the NFL’s apparel partner, not Nike.
The upcoming statue will mark the first in team history to honor a former player.
Taylor played for the NFL from 2004 to 2007, exclusively with Washington, and earned Pro Bowl honors in his final two seasons. He recorded 305 tackles, 12 interceptions, eight forced fumbles, one fumble recovery, and one touchdown during his career. He was inducted into the team’s Ring of Honor the year following his death.
During his rookie season, Taylor wore jersey No. 36 before switching to No. 21 the subsequent year. The Commanders retired his jersey in 2021, making him the fourth player in the franchise’s history to receive this honor.
“I’m eternally thankful for the overwhelming love and support from this incredible fan base,” Jackie Taylor added. “It fills me with gratitude to know that my dad will always be a part of the burgundy and gold family.”