From a steeler fan

When something like this happens, it just reminds me that these players that bring us so much enjoyment and heartache are people.  People with lives, histories, and families.  I think that gets lost in all the games, championship drives, and records.  Losing Sean isn't important because the Redskin defense will be less without him, or that it might hurt their chances to win.  Losing Sean hurts because he has a baby girl.  Because he has a woman and family who loved him and are now left with a void that will forever be unfilled.  They are left with a date on the calendar that will never change, but be indellibly carved into their conscience forever.  

The beauty of this sport, of sports in general, is its ability to bring together people from all over the country, to make them brothers and sisters in a common cause.  Some people just don't get it.  It attaches us to something greater than ourselves, helps us to belong to something other than our own little world.  I can instantly relate to a guy wearing a Steelers jersey or hat, no matter his race, creed or heritage.  So when one player goes down in a sensless act of savagry, it affects so many people who didnt even know him personally.  Steelers fans learned this last year when we nearly lost our franchise linchpin in a motorcycle accident.  That was just an accident, of his own doing, not a vicious attack and murder.  I cannot imagine what most of you must be feeling at this time, but I know I speak for fans everywhere and from every team when I say that my heart goes out to his family and friends, and the entire Redskins fanbase.  I am deeply sorry for your loss.