Washington 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.
In a statement released by the Redskins Tuesday morning, owner Daniel Snyder said, "This is the worst imaginable tragedy. Our thoughts and prayers are with Sean's family."
The National Football League reacts to Taylor's passing:
First and foremost we would like to thank all of the support received by our family during this time. We appreciate the love, support, and prayers received.
A special thanks to the Washington Redskins, University of Miami, the Jackson Ryder Trauma Unit doctor's and staff for all their endless efforts in the fight for Sean's life. Also I would like to thank the City of Florida City Mayor, Commissioners and staff and the community in general and a special thanks to the City of Florida City Police Department and members.
It is with deep regret that a young man had to come to his end so soon. Many of his fans loved him because of the way he played football. Many of his opponents feared him the way he approached the game. Others misunderstood him, many appreciated him and his family loved him. I can only hope and pray that Sean's life was not in vain and that it might touch others in a special way.
Thanks to all the many, many fans, teammates, and just football fans across the world. I can truly say that for the twenty four years that Sean has been in my life I have truly had a great time as a son, friend, parent, a brother, and father.
Our family would like to send a shout out to extend our deepest appreciation to each and every one. Also the media and how they have honored Sean for the man he was.
Again thank you. Funeral arrangements will be announced.
-- Pedro Taylor and Family
"The entire NFL is deeply saddened by the death of Sean Taylor. We extend our heartfelt sympathy to Sean's family, friends, teammates, and the Redskins' organization. This is a terrible tragedy involving the loss of a young man who leaves behind many people struggling to understand it. Our office is staying in close contact with the Redskins to provide all appropriate support to the club and Sean's family. We also are working to determine the facts surrounding this tragic event. We will honor the memory of Sean Taylor at all games this weekend."
-- NFL Commissioner, Roger Goodell.
"The NFL Players Association is in deep mourning after the loss of one of our own, Redskins safety Sean Taylor, who died early this morning. We were all shocked and saddened to hear of this horrific tragedy. Our prayers and thoughts go out to the Taylor family, his friends, and his teammates."
-- NFL Players Association.
"I am devastated over the loss of Sean Taylor. When he was a student at the University of Miami, I got to know him as a person and as a football player. He was passionate about everything he did and was a great friend to his teammates. My thoughts are with his family."
-- Miami Hurricanes Head Coach, Randy Shannon.
"I'm deeply saddened by the passing of Sean Taylor. I recruited Sean to Miami where he went on to have a great career. He energized his teammates with his love of football, his charismatic personality and his willingness to compete at the highest level. It's a real tragedy to see his life end so suddenly and for no reason. I know he recently had a daughter who meant the world to him and my heart goes out to her and the rest of the Taylor family."
-- North Carolina Head Coach, Butch Davis.
"We are saddened by the news about Sean Taylor's death. Although I did not know Sean personally we have competed against him for the last several years. He was a good football player who played the game with great energy and passion. I listened to the respect and remorse that Coach Gibbs and James Thrash had and felt for Sean. These are two people I know and respect greatly. Sean's passing will have an impact on the Washington Redskins organization and the entire NFL community. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Sean's family, friends, and teammates, including our own Jerome McDougle, who played with Sean at the University of Miami."
-- Philadelphia Eagles Head Coach, Andy Reid.
"Sean was a great player, but more importantly a special person. When a senseless tragedy like this happens close to home, it really makes you think about the people in your life. This is much bigger than football; life is precious and you are reminded of that every day. I know he is in a better place, and my prayers are with his family."
-- Baltimore Ravens RB, Willis McGahee.
"It's a very, very difficult situation. They should try to express to the team that Sean would want you to celebrate his life as opposed to mourn his loss. He was a passionate football player. Celebrate his short life and the passion he had for this game."
-- Tennessee Titans coach, Jeff Fisher.
"It's crazy because you play against somebody for four years, twice a year, and you're always going against them. Your heart goes out to his family. Obviously, I thought he was a great player and a good person. It's just sad when you have something like that. It's shocking to see what happened there."
-- Dallas Cowboys TE, Jason Witten.
