For Landon Collins signing with the Washington Redskins is a dream come true. The Louisiana native grew up idolizing Redskins safety Sean Taylor.
Collins wore the No. 26 while in college at Alabama in honor of Taylor, who wore No. 26 at Miami while in college. In the NFL after being drafted by the New York Giants, Collins dawned the No. 21 much like Taylor did with the Redskins before his untimely death.
Now that Collins is officially a member of the Washington Redskins, the talented safety would love the honor to wear his idol’s jersey number.
“It would be an honor,” Collins said on wearing No. 21 with the Redskins per Grant Paulsen of 106.7 the Fan. “Big shoes to fill. A lot of people have their ups and downs about it. If the family would allow me to.”
The Redskins have not officially retired the No. 21, however, they have not issued the number to any other player since Taylor died in Nov. 2007. Taylor has been idolized by many safeties in all levels of football.
Players in the NFL such as Ryan Clark, Ha Ha Clinton-Dix, and DJ Swearinger have honored Taylor in one way or another wearing the No. 21 or 36, the number Taylor wore as a rookie with the Redskins. Coincidentally, Clark, Clinton-Dix, and Swearinger all have played for the Redskins. Swearinger wore No. 36, but it’s not as revered as the No. 21.
Collins signed a six-year deal worth $84 million, including $44.5 million guaranteed. Before he was introduced with the Redskins, he was gifted a signed jersey of Sean Taylor by owner Dan Snyder. Collins was told it was one of two Snyder possessed.
Collins admitted he “instantly broke down” after receiving the jersey.
As the season approaches what number Collins wears will be a hot topic among fans and media. It’s been taboo for any Redskins player to even consider the No. 21. However, opinions on the matter may change considering the admiration and talent Collins possesses.
