Lasting Legacy of Sean Taylor: A Look at the Influence on History

How the contributions of Sean Taylor continue to shape the world today.

Sean Taylor was an American professional football safety who played for the Washington Redskins in the NFL. Drafted fifth overall in 2004, he played four seasons before his tragic death in 2007. He was a highly regarded player known for his athleticism and hard-hitting style of play, quickly becoming a key player for the Redskins.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Legacy & Impact

December 2, 2007: Redskins Game Following Taylor's Death

On December 2, 2007, the Washington Redskins played their first game after Sean Taylor's death against the Buffalo Bills at FedExField. The defense started with 10 players, and fans received commemorative towels with Taylor's number.

December 18, 2007: Posthumous Pro Bowl Selection

On December 18, 2007, Sean Taylor was posthumously voted to his second Pro Bowl, becoming the first deceased player in NFL history to be elected to the Pro Bowl.

November 30, 2008: Induction into Redskins Ring of Fame

On November 30, 2008, Sean Taylor was posthumously inducted as the 43rd member into the Washington Redskins Ring of Fame.

2008: Inducted into Washington's Ring of Fame

In 2008, Sean Taylor was inducted into Washington's Ring of Fame posthumously.

2008: Posthumous Pro Bowl and All-Pro Selection

In 2008, Sean Taylor was posthumously voted starting free safety for the NFC team for the 2008 Pro Bowl and was voted a second team All-Pro.

2008: Pro Bowl Jersey Auction for Memorial Fund

In 2008, teammates Chris Cooley, Chris Samuels, and Ethan Albright wore jerseys with No. 21 during the Pro Bowl. The three jerseys were auctioned off, and the proceeds were donated to the Sean Taylor Memorial Trust Fund.

September 5, 2009: Sean Taylor Memorial Field Dedication

On September 5, 2009, the football field at Gulliver Prep was renamed Sean Taylor Memorial Field in his honor.

2014: Ryan Clark Honors Taylor

In 2014, Sean Taylor's former teammate Ryan Clark returned to the Washington Redskins and wore No. 21 during practices in Taylor's honor.

2015: Landon Collins to wear number 21 to honor Taylor

Heading into the 2015 season, the New York Giants announced safety Landon Collins would switch from No. 27 to No. 21 to honor Taylor. Collins also wore Taylor's college number (No. 26) during his collegiate career at Alabama as a way to pay tribute.

2016: Su'a Cravens chooses number 36

In 2016, The Washington Redskins' second round pick in the NFL draft, Su'a Cravens, chose No. 36 upon joining the Redskins as a rookie in dedication to Taylor.

2017: Cravens switched to No. 39

In 2017 Su'a Cravens switched to No. 39 after safety D. J. Swearinger requested No. 36 after signing with the Redskins as a free agent. Swearinger wore No. 36 throughout four teams in his professional career as a way to honor Taylor.

October 2021: Jersey Retirement and Road Naming Ceremony

In October 2021, Sean Taylor's jersey number was retired by the team, making him the third player in the team's history to receive this honor. A road leading to the stadium was also named in his honor during the ceremony.

October 17, 2021: Number Retired

On October 17, 2021, the Washington franchise retired Sean Taylor's number 21 before a game against the Kansas City Chiefs with his family in attendance.

November 27, 2022: Display Unveiling

On November 27, 2022, the Washington Commanders unveiled a statue-like display honoring Sean Taylor at FedExField. The unveiling was followed by criticism of the design and lack of a physical statue.