Jason Taylor Eyes Son Mason’s NFL Debut with Tears and Pride

Lead: Hall of Famer Jason Taylor will watch his son Mason Taylor make his NFL regular-season debut for the New York Jets against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday, Sept. 7 in Pittsburgh, describing the moment as both nerve-wracking and emotional.

Nut Graf: The debut marks the culmination of Taylor’s football lineage and his years of preparation at LSU. As Jason Taylor balances coaching duties at the University of Miami with fatherly pride, his reaction underscores the human side of professional sports and the enduring bond between parent and athlete.

Emotional Weight of the Moment

Jason Taylor expects to be a “nervous wreck” watching his 21-year-old tight end son step onto the field. A two-time Pro Bowl defensive end and Hall of Famer, he compares Mason’s first NFL game to life milestones, emphasizing pride over personal accolades.

“It’ll be stirring. Evocative. Emotional. And, yes, tear-jerking,” Jason Taylor said, admitting he’ll watch from his office while preparing for Miami’s next game.

Family Legacy and Expectations

  • Football Pedigree: Mason Taylor, drafted 42nd overall from LSU, inherits a legacy that includes Hall of Famers Jason Taylor and Zach Thomas.
  • Guidance Over Glory: Jason insists on grounding Mason, advising him to “be where your feet are” and treat the NFL like any other level of football.
  • No Mediocrity: A self-described “no mediocre family,” the Taylors strive for excellence in every pursuit, athletic or otherwise.

Preparation and Perspective

Jason Taylor, now Miami’s defensive ends coach, likens Mason’s debut nerves to his own experiences, despite 233 career games. He counsels maintaining composure and focusing on fundamentals: blocking, tackling, running and catching.

Looking Ahead

Mason Taylor’s role in the Jets’ offense is expected to expand beyond his first snap, with the rookie tight end poised to contribute in both the passing and run games. Sunday’s matchup will reveal whether he can match his father’s storied legacy on the professional stage.