Redskins release All-Pro DE Taylor
By John Clayton
ESPN.com
The Washington Redskins released defensive end Jason Taylor on Monday after the six-time All-Pro failed to accept a workout commitment.
According to a source, Taylor was asked by the Redskins to take part in 75 percent of their offseason workouts. That would have required him to be at the Redskins' facility during eight of the 13 weeks of the offseason program, three days a week.
Family took precedence over the money.
With three children, Taylor, who has a home in the Miami area, opted not to agree to the workout provisions. The team was willing to keep his restructured salary at $8.5 million, but his desire to be with his family in the offseason was more important in his life.
For their part, the Redskins needed cap room for a six-year, $54 million contract signed last week by cornerback DeAngelo Hall.
"Jason Taylor was a real professional during his time with the Redskins," coach Jim Zorn said in a statement. "He played hurt, but still gave his best effort to be prepared and play hard every week. We wish him and his family the very best."
Taylor came to the Redskins from the Miami Dolphins for a second-round choice in 2009 and a sixth-rounder in 2010.
The 34-year-old's 120.5 career sacks are the most among active NFL players. But he had just 3.5 last season.
Despite his departure from the Dolphins, Taylor is still interested in continuing his NFL career.