Former Miami DT Leonard Taylor has breakout game with NY Jets

Former Miami defensive tackle Leonard Taylor had a breakout performance for the N.Y. Jets in their 10-6 win over the New York Giants in their final 2023 preseason game on Saturday. Taylor signed with the Jets as an undrafted free agent. The game against the Giants was by far Taylor's best preseason performance.

Taylor finished with 4.0 tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, five quarterback pressures, 1.0 stuff and a 25 percent win rate. In three preseason games, Taylor finished with 8.0 tackles and 2.5 sacks. Jets beat writer Antwan Stanley said, "Not only should he make the Jets roster, but he is also making a case to get regular-season snaps."

Taylor is finally fulfilling the promise he had as a five-star signee with Miami in 2021. In three seasons with Miami Taylor had 64 tackles, 23.5 tackles for loss, 6.0 sacks, 1.0 interception and 1.0 pass breakup. Taylor's best season with Miami was in 2022 when he had 24 tackles, 10.5 TFLs and 3.0 sacks.

ESPN lists Taylor fourth on the Jets depth chart at DT. The way Taylor played versus the Giants on Saturday and the comments from Staley indicate he has likely moved his way up on the Jets depth chart. NFL Network analyst Brian Baldinger sees "big upside" in Taylor.

Taylor had a much-needed statement game versus the Giants. Making the NFL as an undrafted player is difficult, but not impossible. Twelve percent of NFL rosters are made up of undrafted players. After an uninspiring career with Miami, Taylor has a chance to finally live up to his five-star status.

Canes Warning's partner site The Jet Press wrote two weeks ago "NY Jets discovering untapped potential with former 5-star recruit."
Justin Fried wrote that the Jets have become known for developing defensive linemen since Robert Saleh was hired as head coach in 2021. Let's hope that continues with Taylor.