The Commanders will honor former safety Sean Taylor with a statue outside their stadium in Landover, Maryland, the franchise announced Saturday.
The memorial will replace a temporary installation — a wire mannequin wearing a replica of Taylor’s jersey, helmet and pants — at Commanders Field. Fans criticized the current memorial when former owner Dan Snyder unveiled it in November 2022. The organization updated the style of jersey, socks and cleats a month later.
“We realize that the installation fell short in honoring one of our franchise’s most iconic players,” a Commanders spokesperson said in a statement. “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 Miami product became an immediate fan favorite after the Commanders — then known as the Redskins — selected him in the first round of the 2004 draft. Taylor was named to two Pro Bowls during his four seasons in Washington.
The hard-hitting safety’s career was cut short during the 2007 season. Burglars fatally shot Taylor during a burglary at his Florida home.
“I’m thankful for [owner] Josh Harris and the Commanders family for their continued commitment to keep my dad’s legacy alive,” Taylor’s daughter, Jackie, said in a statement. “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 did not specify when the new statue could debut. The installation would be movable if the franchise moves away from Commanders Field in the future. The team’s current lease expires in 2027 and the team is considering options for a new stadium in Maryland or at the RFK Stadium site in the District.
• Liam Griffin can be reached at lgriffin@washingtontimes.com.
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