Redskins safety Sean Taylor made riveting tackles that jarred the ball loose from offensive players. The rookie from the University of Miami swooped in front of hapless receivers to snag interceptions. During training camp, Taylor looked like a Pro Bowl safety with three interceptions, including one returned for a touchdown, and two forced fumbles.
Things haven't come as easy in the regular season. Taylor didn't start in the first two games. Even after he replaced Andre Lott in the starting lineup, Taylor hasn't made any of the big plays that became routine during preseason. Taylor is looking for his first NFL interception.
But Taylor has been solid, mixing typical rookie mistakes with strong play. Gregg Williams, Washington's assistant head coach-defense, is happy with the rookie safety's development through five games.
"I'm really pleased with his progress," Williams said after Thursday's practice. "Hopefully, as he gets more and more comfortable, you'll see some difference-making plays."
Instead of judging Taylor by highlight-film plays, Williams chooses to look at the rookie as someone who has been successful by not allowing big plays.
"I always smiled about that -- early in the year, fans or players, or people that don't do what we do every day say, 'Coach how are you going to get [the Redskins] in position to make a big-time play," Williams said. "I'm trying to keep young guys from giving up plays. I'm trying to keep young guys from costing the team.
"He's done a tremendous job in that respect, because as a young guy there is a lot of pressure to make sure you step in there and know what to do. And you don't cause a big play against us. And he hasn't. He's done a very good job of that."
-- Nunyo Demasio
