In a move that has sent shockwaves through the NFL, the New England Patriots have swooped in and claimed former New York Jets defensive tackle Leonard Taylor III off the waiver wire, signing him to their practice squad. The 23-year-old phenom, who was abruptly cut by the Jets earlier this week, didn’t stay a free agent for long. NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero broke the news on social media, confirming that Taylor has found a new home with one of the Jets’ fiercest rivals. This could spell trouble for New York if Taylor’s raw talent blossoms in New England.
A High-Upside Talent Let Go Too Soon?
Leonard Taylor III, a former Miami Hurricanes standout, was a highly touted prospect coming out of high school. Labeled a five-star recruit in the 2021 class, he was ranked as the No. 3 recruit in Florida—behind only JC Latham and Dallas Turner, both of whom became first-round NFL draft picks—and the No. 11 recruit nationally, according to Dane Brugler’s “The Beast” via The Athletic. Despite going undrafted in 2024, it wasn’t due to a lack of talent. Brugler noted that Taylor’s inconsistency and “sky-high missed tackle rate” left some production on the field, but his potential is undeniable.
“Picturesque frame with long arms and room for additional mass … flashes juice in lower body with an explosive get-off … plays balanced on his feet with the shoulder/body flexibility to maneuver through tight spaces,” Brugler wrote, highlighting Taylor’s physical gifts. He also showed flashes of pass-rush ability, particularly in his 2023 tape against Temple, suggesting that with proper coaching, Taylor could develop into a force.
During his rookie season with the Jets in 2024, Taylor displayed glimpses of the player who was once considered a first-round talent. He recorded four quarterback hits, 1.5 sacks, and four tackles for loss—impressive numbers for a rotational player. However, changes in the Jets’ coaching staff and roster decisions ultimately led to his release.
Jets’ Roster Moves Paved the Way for Taylor’s Departure
The Jets’ decision to part ways with Taylor came as a surprise to many, especially after he earned a spot on the 53-man roster during the offseason. General manager Darren Mougey made significant moves to bolster the defensive tackle position, acquiring veteran Harrison Phillips from the Minnesota Vikings and Jowon Briggs from the Cleveland Browns. These additions crowded the depth chart, pushing Taylor to the sidelines. In four of the first six games of the 2025 season, Taylor was a healthy scratch, unable to showcase his skills on the field.
Jets fans were quick to express their frustration. “Well this blows,” posted The Jet Press on social media, echoing the sentiment of a fanbase that saw Taylor as a player with untapped potential. “I don’t know how this doesn’t piss you off 😡😡😡 #JetUP,” one fan commented, while Antwan Staley of the New York Daily News simply reacted with, “Of course.”
A New Chapter in a Storied Rivalry
The Patriots, known for capitalizing on overlooked talent, didn’t hesitate to scoop up Taylor. While he starts on their practice squad, the opportunity to join New England’s active roster looms large. The Jets-Patriots rivalry, one of the NFL’s most storied, has seen players switch sides before, but Taylor’s move could add a particularly painful chapter for Jets fans. If the young defensive tackle taps into his five-star potential, he could haunt New York twice a year in divisional matchups.
Taylor’s highlight reel is a reminder of why he was so highly regarded. His explosive get-off, ability to maneuver through tight spaces, and flashes of pass-rush prowess make him a terrifying prospect for opposing offensive lines. With continued coaching and development in New England, Taylor could quickly become a key piece of the Patriots’ defensive front.
Did the Jets Make a Costly Mistake?
The Jets’ decision to let Taylor go could come back to bite them. At just 23 years old, he has the physical tools and upside to become a dominant force in the NFL. The team’s choice to prioritize veterans like Phillips and Briggs over a developing talent like Taylor may have been a pragmatic one, but it’s a gamble nonetheless. If Taylor thrives in New England, Jets fans and analysts will undoubtedly question the evaluation process that led to his release.
For now, Taylor begins his journey with the Patriots, starting on the practice squad but with a clear path to earning a bigger role. The Jets, meanwhile, will be watching closely, hoping their evaluation was correct. If Taylor’s highlight reel starts lighting up Gillette Stadium, New York may never hear the end of it.