Hurricanes defensive lineman Leonard Taylor III signs with the New York Jets

Leonard Taylor III has seemed destined for the NFL since high school, and now he will get a chance to show what he can do at the pro level.

Taylor, a former five-star prospect, is going pro after signing with the New York Jets as an undrafted free agent, the Miami Hurricanes announced Saturday night.

Taylor was a star in high school, playing at Miami Southridge and then Miami Palmetto. He was listed as the No. 4 defensive lineman and No. 11 player in the 2021 class.

“Produced on a consistent basis throughout his high school career despite offenses trying to scheme around him week in and week out,” his 247Sports recruiting scouting report said.

Taylor made a quick impact at UM, making 21 total tackles and tying for the team lead with 7.5 tackles for loss while playing a rotational role as a freshman.

Taylor became a starter as a sophomore and rewarded that decision with a strong season. He notched 24 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss and three sacks, earning All-ACC honorable mention honors. He had an 87.1 defensive grade from Pro Football Focus.

Coming off surgery last year, Taylor had a small downtick in production. He played in 10 games and had 19 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss and one sack. Pro Football Focus gave him a 74.8 defensive grade.

Signed to the J-E-T-S! #ProCanes | @nyjets pic.twitter.com/5MiY4iMM9N

— Miami Hurricanes Football (@CanesFootball) April 28, 2024