DST Redskins, DST WAS
News: Redskins safety Sean Taylor died early Tuesday, a day after the Pro Bowl player was shot at home by what police say was an intruder. He was 24. Taylor died at Jackson Memorial Hospital, where he had been airlifted after the shooting early Monday. Doctors had been encouraged late Monday when Taylor squeezed a nurse’s hand, according to Vinny Cerrato, the Redskins’ vice president of football operations. Taylor, the fifth overall pick in the 2004 NFL draft following an All-American season at the University of Miami, was shot early Monday in the upper leg, damaging an artery and causing significant blood loss.
Analysis: This year, Taylor was allowed to play a true free safety position, using his speed and power to chase down passes and crush would-be receivers. His five interceptions tie for the league lead in the NFC, even though he missed the last two games because of a sprained knee. Assistant coach Gregg Williams frequently called Taylor the best athlete he’d ever coached. His season ends with 42 total tackles, nine passes defensed and a forced fumble to go with those five interceptions. “He loved football. He felt like that’s what he was made to do,” Redskins coach Joe Gibbs said. “And I think what I’ve noticed over the last year and a half … is he matured. I think his baby had a huge impact on him. There was a real growing up in his life.”
Absolutely tragic. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family!