On NFL Draft Day 2004, Gregg Williams—the defensive head coach of the Washington Redskins—stood on top of a table to make his point. Looking down at his colleagues, the owner, the General Manager, a Hall of Fame head coach. His message was clear.
For days the debate was “Who do we draft at #5?”. The choice narrowed to two: either Miami University tight-end star Kellen Winslow or fellow Miami star, free safety Sean Taylor.
Both players filled a need. Both were “can’t miss” prospects. Both would be available at #5.
Rumor has it Dan Snyder wanted Winslow. The Redskins owner loves the high-profile, charismatic scoring threat—(but who doesn’t really?)
Williams wasn’t having it. If you’ve ever watched Sean Taylor play—either at the University of Miami or with the Redskins—it was obvious. The kid was special.
Williams got his wish.
Three years later, Taylor was not only the most feared—truly feared—defensive player in the most angriest of all sports, but he led the league in interceptions. (Even three weeks after his death)
On Sunday, he was inducted into the Redskins Ring of Fame. We’ll miss you Sean.
Crowd Noise 