A tragedy that hits home in D.C.

There are few parallels to the situation the Bengals face, but the Redskins can relate. On Nov. 27, 2007, safety Sean Taylor was killed at the age of 24.

Henry’s death hits home in Washington, so much that Redskins owner Dan Snyder — prior to introducing new executive vice president/general manager Bruce Allen — gave his condolences to the Bengals, Henry’s family and his friend, Cincinnati coach Marvin Lewis.

“As an organization that went through a tragedy two years ago, our hearts and prayers and wishes go out to them,” Snyder said.

Both Henry and Taylor passed away in the prime of their careers. Both had troubled pasts, but seemed to be showing great personal growth prior to their deaths.

The 26-year-old wideout was released by the Bengals after his fifth arrest, but was welcomed back to the team after showing changes.

“There was a different man sitting across from me, a different person,” Lewis said.

Lewis also talked about Henry’s maturation as a person, a father and a football player. The coach even said he became a “beacon of hope.”

Bengals wide receiver Chad Ochocinco had similar sentiments about his close friend.

“He’s been doing everything right,” Ochocinco said, fighting off tears. “I don’t see how Chris was supposed to go already, especially when he was on the right path.”

After Taylor’s death, the Redskins had several tributes to their fallen safety — starting the game with 10 players, wearing a No. 21 sticker on there helmets and showing a remembrance video to name a few. Then, Washington rallied off four straight wins to end the season and make the playoffs.

Cincinnati quarterback Carson Palmer already said they should dedicate the game and the rest of the season to Henry.

The tragedy galvanized the Redskins in 2007. Can it do the same for the Bengals?

It won’t be easy, but it won’t be because of the lack of support from Bengals fans — new and old.