Leonard Taylor was one of the higher-profile undrafted free-agent signings by the New York Jets, and he's lived up to his six-figure signing bonus this summer.
The Miami defensive end was borderline unblockable during the Jets' three preseason games while making his case for a 53-man roster spot. In the meantime, Taylor has earned plaudits from The Sporting News, which named its 2024 NFL All-Preseason Team.
While NYC product Chris Williams occupied the lone defensive tackle spot on the All-Preseason unit, Taylor joined Minnesota Vikings' rookie Taki Taimani as Honorable Mentions.
Taylor totaled 2.5 sacks and four hits for a loss during the Jets' exhibition schedule. He registered half-sacks on three consecutive snaps during the 10-6 win over the New York Giants on August 24.
"He’s really come along the last couple weeks. Obviously, he’s still a rookie, has a long way to go. But definitely over the last couple of weeks thought he’s done a really nice job," said head coach Robert Saleh following the preseason finale.
Taylor is battling for the fifth defensive tackle spot on the Jets' roster, assuming New York will keep five ends and five interior linemen.
"You’re trying to figure out which ones you’re going to have to let go and which ones you’re going to keep. Like I said, it’s not clear-cut," said Saleh. "There’s a lot of players who are capable of being on the 53-man roster and there’s a lot of guys who represented themselves well throughout the entire training camp."
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