Commanders Build Statue to Replace Sean Taylor Memorial
By Arabia Tillery
August 25, 2024 | 3:41 PM ET
(Landover, MD) - The memorial installation for Sean Taylor at FedEx Field has indeed faced considerable criticism from fans since its unveiling in November 2022. Many felt that the wire mannequin did not do justice to the legacy of the beloved safety, who played all four years of his NFL career with the Washington franchise.
The updates made just a month later—correcting inaccuracies in the jersey, pants, cleats, and socks—highlighted the ongoing commitment to honoring Taylor’s memory, yet the initial missteps reflected poorly on the organization’s intentions. Additionally, the failure to accurately represent Taylor's facemask, a significant part of his playing identity, further fueled discontent among supporters. Overall, the memorial has served as a reminder of both the challenges in commemorating sports legends and the deep connection fans have with their heroes.
Temporary Sean Taylor Memorial at FedEx Field
A Commanders spokesperson published a statement stating, “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.”
The Washington Commanders are taking significant steps to honor the late Sean Taylor, a player who left an indelible mark on the franchise and its fans. After acknowledging that the previous memorial did not adequately celebrate his legacy, the organization announced plans to collaborate with Taylor's family, specifically his daughter Jackie Taylor, on a new statue to be unveiled outside the stadium. Sean Taylor, a two-time Pro Bowl selection and the 5th overall pick in the 2004 NFL Draft, was tragically killed in 2007 during a burglary.
The upcoming statue will mark the first time a player is memorialized in this manner by the Commanders. The team has assured fans that the statue will be moveable, should they relocate to a new stadium in the future, although no unveiling date has yet been announced.
Sean Taylor and daughter Jackie Taylor
Jackie Taylor expressed her gratitude towards the organization and highlighted the importance of preserving her father's legacy, stating, “I’m thankful for Josh Harris and the Commanders family for their continued commitment to keep my dad’s legacy alive. I look 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.”
The Commanders are committed to recognizing their legends; Taylor's No. 21 was retired in 2022, and Hall of Famer Darrell Green's No. 28 will be retired this year at halftime of the Commanders vs Panthers game, bringing the total number of retired jerseys to five: Sean Taylor, Darrell Green, Sammy Baugh (33), Bobby Mitchell (49), and Sonny Jurgensen (9). The Commanders' commitment to honoring their past players underscores the significant role they played in shaping the team’s history and the community.
