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Son Of NFL Legend Jason Taylor Announces NFL Draft Decision

Originally posted on The Spun | By Kameron Duncan | Last updated Dec 5, 2024 9:24 PM ET

Former defensive end Jason Taylor was one of the best players of his era in the NFL, terrorizing offenses with his unique combination of skill and athleticism.

Taylor was a first-ballot Hall of Famer after an illustrious career that included six trips to the Pro Bowl and four All-Pro selections. He was the NFL's defensive player of the year in 2006 and led the league in sacks four years prior.

Taylor retired as the Miami Dolphins' franchise leader in sacks with 131, a record he still holds to this day. Taylor is also seventh all-time in sacks for his career, in the same conversation as other all-time greats like DeMarcus Ware, Michael Strahan and Terrell Suggs.

These days, Taylor is back in Miami, working with the Hurricanes as the program's defensive line coach.

On Thursday, another member of the Taylor family from a prominent college football program revealed their intentions when it comes to the 2025 NFL Draft.

Taylor's son Mason, a tight end at LSU, says that he will enter next year's draft, forgoing his senior season in Baton Rouge in order to do so.

“I am excited for both the challenges and the opportunities that are in front of me but please know that while I am leaving LSU, I will forever bleed purple and gold. Geaux Tigers,” the tight end said in an Instagram post.

GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA - NOVEMBER 16: Mason Taylor #86 of the LSU Tigers looks on during the second half of a game against the Florida Gators at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium on November 16, 2024 in Gainesville, Florida. (Photo by James Gilbert/Getty Images)James Gilbert/Getty Images

Like his father at Akron and then in the pros, Taylor set records during his time at LSU. He's the program's all-time leader in receptions and receiving yards for a tight end, surpassing future professionals like former No. 1 overall draft pick and Heisman trophy winner Billy Cannon.

Taylor has a famous father, but he isn't the only Hall of Fame family member to be related to the young tight end. His uncle is another Dolphins legend, linebacker Zach Thomas. Jason Taylor married Katina Thomas, Zach's sister, and the two had three children during their time together.

We'll see where Taylor ends up in next year's NFL Draft, but with two Hall of Fame family members in his corner, it's going to be hard to find a college player with a better support system ahead of their time in the NFL.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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