Sean Taylor played for the Washington Redskins from 2004 until 2007, when he was murdered in his home in a botched robbery. The team closed the season 4-1 after his death, but the team is still working to cope from the loss. The national outpouring of sympathy that went to the Redskins helped to ease the pain from the death of their star free safety. At the start of his last season, Sports Illustrated Magazine named him the heaviest hitter in the NFL, and it looked like it would be his breakout year. Unfortunately, his career was cut short before he could fully realize his potential with the Redskins.
The murder investigation has turned up several suspects in the killing, all aged 17-20. The gang was arrested late last year, in the weeks following Taylor's murder. Their trial is scheduled for August of this year. They are expected to cooperate with prosecutors, and will all be charged with second degree murder as per Florida law, which has all accomplices to murder charged with the same crime rather than just the person who carried out the act itself.
In the offseason, the Redskins have been recovering well from the loss, with no major issues being apparent in their lineup or spirit. New Head Coach Jim Zorn is taking over, coming from the Seattle Seahawks, whom he coached from 2001-2007. His presence should help the Redskins develop their sagging offense, particularly that of talented quarterback Jason Campbell.
