Commanders’ memorial to Sean Taylor draws backlash on social media

The Washington Commanders unveiled a memorial to the late Sean Taylor on Sunday before their game against the Atlanta Falcons, but the reaction on social media was disappointing.

The team displayed the memorial at FedExField while the players were required to wear the “21” decal on the back of their helmets. The team also unveiled a mural for Taylor in section 132 of the stadium and also invited Taylor’s family to practice before the game.

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Washington safety Sean Taylor raises his hand to greet fans after the Redskins defeated the Eagles in Philadelphia, on January 1, 2006.
(Reuters/Tim Shaffer/Files)

It was the memorial that caught the attention of NFL fans. It featured Taylor’s jersey and gear when he was a member of the then-Redskins. Some fans were upset that Washington went the mannequin route instead of an actual statue in or in front of the stadium.

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Washington retired Taylor’s No. 21 last year amid controversy over the fallout from the leak of an email from Jon Gruden showing correspondence with former team president Bruce Allen.

On the 15th anniversary of Taylor's death, all Commander players will wear a number 21 decal on their helmet.

On the 15th anniversary of Taylor’s death, all Commander players will wear a number 21 decal on their helmet.
(AP Photo/Jessica Rapfogel)

Washington selected Taylor with the No. 5 overall pick in the 2004 NFL Draft. He was a two-time Pro Bowler before being killed in a botched steal attempt in 2007.

Fans attend the dedication of the Sean Taylor Memorial, prior to the start of the Atlanta Falcons and Washington Commanders game, Sunday, November 27, 2022, in Landover, Maryland.

Fans attend the dedication of the Sean Taylor Memorial, prior to the start of the Atlanta Falcons and Washington Commanders game, Sunday, November 27, 2022, in Landover, Maryland.
(AP Photo/Jessica Rapfogel)

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He played for Washington from 2004 to 2007. He had 305 tackles, 12 interceptions and eight forced fumbles before his untimely death.

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