Western Kentucky’s Taywan Taylor is a 2017 NFL Draft wide receiver prospect who deserves more attention.
Taywan Taylor is an explosive playmaker who is highly underrated as a prospect. He features the quick-twitch ability needed to outpace defenders and create separation. This quickness makes him a true home-run threat.
Taylor’s ability to take the top off the defense also helps open things up underneath. He has a well-rounded route tree thanks to his suddenness. Taylor plays with a lot of balance which helps him change direction and run crisp routes.
He has experience working out of both the slot and on the outside. Taylor is listed at 6’1”, but that seems to be a generous measurement. However, his official measurement won’t sway his overall draft stock because he plays big.
More from With the First Pick
- 2024 NFL Draft: Prospect Viewing Guide for Week 0
- 2024 NFL Draft: All Eyes On NFL Draft Defensive Prospects
- Player Spotlight: USC Safety Calen Bullock
- 2024 Senior Bowl Watchlist Announced
- 2024 NFL Draft: Florida State is Loaded with Prospect in 2023
Taylor has excellent reach which allows him to make plays on poorly thrown balls. His strong hands help him to consistently pluck the ball away from his frame and make those tough catches in traffic. Taylor plays without fear.
He’s the type of receiver who quarterbacks will quickly love. Taylor knows how to locate the opening in the defense and always works back to the quarterback. This is someone who is elusive enough to take a short pass and turn it into a big gain.
The biggest question mark facing Taylor is the level of competition he faces. He wasn’t as effective when Western Kentucky faced Alabama this past season. However, some of that was due to inconsistent quarterback play.
Overall, this is a top-end prospect who deserves 1st round attention. He someone who can produce game-changing plays and also help move the chains.
Current Draft Status: Early 2nd Round