In the high-octane world of the NFL, where expectations are as volatile as a linebacker’s tackle, Jason Taylor II, a safety for the Los Angeles Rams, stands out not just for his athletic prowess but for his optimistic outlook towards the 2024 season.
Selected in the seventh round of the 2023 NFL Draft, Taylor’s journey from a collegiate player to a professional has been marked by sheer perseverance and a deep-seated belief in his team’s championship capabilities.
The Unexpected Rise of Jason Taylor
“Going from a projected six or seven-win team to a true playoff contender,” as Taylor puts it, the Rams have indeed exceeded expectations. Despite missing part of his rookie season due to injury, Taylor has rapidly become a core member of the special teams unit and is poised for more. His time at Oklahoma State, characterized by a slow start and a blockbuster finish, seems to mirror his professional ascent—steady, determined, and impactful.
Reflecting on his college days, Taylor shared, “It went a little weird when I first got to OSU. But then I was able to get that consistent time in my fourth year. I had always had flashes, but that was the time everything strung together.” His senior year saw the team achieving remarkable success, culminating in a victory over Notre Dame in the Fiesta Bowl, which Taylor describes as a period where “everything was clicking.”
Draft Day Surprises and a New Home in Los Angeles Rams
Taylor’s entry into the NFL was as dramatic as his play on the field. Falling to the seventh round was unexpected, with Taylor recalling, “I was surprised during the draft. I didn’t know what was going on. I had teams calling me like, ‘Why are you falling?’ I’m like ‘I don’t know. Y’all are supposed to draft me.’ The Rams were a surprise team.”
Moving from Oklahoma to the bustling streets of Los Angeles posed its challenges, but Taylor adapted well, remarking on the adjustment: “It was difficult at first just because you don’t have school anymore, so it’s different. With it being LA, not just any city, it was even more. I adjusted well, though. I feel great out here. The weather is amazing.”
Jason Taylor Overcoming Rookie
Taylor’s rookie season was not without its hurdles. An early injury sidelined him for a significant part of the season, but he returned stronger, stating, “I was able to grind it out and get back on the field for the final six or seven games. I played well and got good feedback on those games. I’m looking forward to this season coming up where I can just be healthy all the way through.”
Post Spring Game 24’
DE @MarquiseL07 Marquise Lightfoot
• Game performance
• Off- season Work @JasonTaylor @CanesFootball pic.twitter.com/JX44giJDvg
— C2- New Era Prep (@newerac2) April 13, 2024
For the upcoming 2024 season, Taylor is clear about his ambitions: “I’m just going to take this season as if it was my rookie season. Try to start from scratch. I want to eventually be a player who’s recognized in this league. I want to be a starter and hopefully go win a championship.”
The Brotherhood in the Locker Room
The camaraderie within the Rams’ locker room is palpable, with Taylor highlighting the addition of Kam Curl and the presence of characters like Derion Kendrick and Tre Tomlinson, who bring humor and light-heartedness to the team dynamics. “Some guys are just funny without even trying. I’ll say, Derion Kendrick. One of the funniest guys. Cool dude, silent,” Taylor notes, emphasizing the strong team spirit that binds the players.
As the Rams gear up for the 2024 NFL season, Taylor’s story is not just about personal triumph but about a collective vision aimed at the ultimate NFL accolade—a Super Bowl victory. His journey from a late draft pick to a potential key player in the Rams’ defense exemplifies the unpredictability and thrill of professional football, where every player, regardless of draft status, can dream big and rise high.
Source: Fansided
