The sports world will forever mourn Sean Taylor, who tragically passed away 14 years ago in the midst of a successful career with the Washington football team. The standout free security was murdered in the middle of his fourth season in the league when he was just 24 years old. With football fans, his memory will live on through his family.
Washington legend’s little brother Gabe Taylor played for Rice in his freshman year, registering 56 tackles (the fifth best of the team and the second tallest among defensive backs) with three interceptions. He won three different rewards for the player of the week so far in his academic career.
Taylor closed the Owls’ regular season with a late interception that sealed the 35-31 victory over Louisiana Tech on the anniversary of his brother’s death. He was hyped after playing the big game and getting the win.
A special moment at Rice Stadiumâ¤ï¸
14 years after the death of his older brother, Sean Taylor, the safety of the owls @iamGabeTaylor seals victory for @rizfootball with an interception late in the game.@sport center # SCTop10#GoOwlsx #RFND pic.twitter.com/XxOjSUOR56
– Rice Athletics (@RiceAthletics) November 28, 2021
I am built like this! Do like that! Talk like that! ð£
– Gabe Taylor (@iamGabeTaylor) November 27, 2021
Taylor’s interception was probably the highlight for Rice, who has gone 4-8, this season. His hard-hitting style of play is on par with that of his brother, who will always be one of the most iconic stars in the football team organization.
Sean Taylor’s jersey has been retired this season, but the honor seemed like a hasty attempt to distract people from the ongoing investigation into team owner Dan Snyder. Washington would build him a physical memorial and unveil it next season.
Mismanagement of honoring Taylor’s legacy is business as usual for the football team. The team are currently 4-6 and will struggle to make a playoff push with young star Chase Young sidelined with a ripped ACL.