RIP Sean Taylor

For those of you who follow professional football, this is likely to be a big story. For every one else, a story of a young man who lived a dangerous life, managed to make a good name for himself, and died far too young.

Washington Redskins starting strong safety Sean Taylor died in the hospital this morning. He was shot in the leg yesterday by unknown suspects who broke into his Florida home and burst into his bedroom. Taylor was there with his longtime girlfriend and 18 month-old daughter. He was rushed to the hospital in critical condition where doctors performed a lengthy surgery. Last night, the last word was that Taylor had squeezed a doctor’s hand in response to instructions which was thought to be a very encouraging sign, although he had not gained consciousness.

Taylor was nearly universally liked and respected by his teammates. I’m sure that other folks will go into the detail of his life. Basically, Taylor, whose father was the chief of police of a city near Miami, ran with the violent hip-hop crowd even after he started his NFL career. He was busted for brandishing a handgun before the beginning of last season and his temper seemed to be an issue. Plenty of folks were wondering if Taylor had the determination and self-discipline to straighten himself out. After his daughter was born last year, though, Taylor seemed to be a changed man. His demeanor both on the field and off was different and he made the Pro Bowl for the first time in his career last year. He was the team leader in interceptions this year and his leadership on the field was a key reason the ‘Skins defense was so fierce. He earned the respect and honest affection of his teammates and the coaching staff.

I’m sure there will be more details about his shooting as the days pass. There was a lot to this story, including a previous break-in where a knife was left on the bed, and there’s a lot we don’t know. I hope, when everything is done, that they find and punish those responsible for the murder. I hope also that his family finds peace.

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Category: In Memoriam, My Beloved Redskins