Jason Taylor returns to the Miami Dolphins
In what looked like another episode of Jason Taylor vs. Bill Parcells the reality of it all was a player who wanted more than anything to just come home. Spending last year playing for the Washington Redskins the season ended in a bit of disappointment. Jason Taylor decided to walk away from $8.5 million this off season in an attempt to rekindle what was left of his legacy. Rumors say he didn’t want to spend the summer at the Redskins training camp in favor of spending time with his family back in Miami.
Jason Taylor openly admitted he wanted to re-join the Dolphins shortly after and was pursued by many teams, including the AFC East contender the New England Patriots. It was made clear to Jason Taylor by the Patriots front-office that he’d be a welcome addition to the team. Taylor accepted the compliment but waited for the Dolphins to make their offer. The Dolphins front-office made it clear to Taylor they would resume talks after the Rookie NFL Draft, while Dolphin players urged the decision makers to sign Taylor. Many fans did not want to see Jason Taylor go to the New England Patriots.
The NFL Draft came and went without the Dolphins choosing a highly rated pass rushing defender. However, Tony Sparano insisted this off season they would address their lack of pass rushing ability. It seemed clear they would sign Jason Taylor. Weeks passed and it almost seemed the Dolphins were content with CFL pass rushing specialist Cameron Wake. Sports analyst began saying Jason Taylor would probably end up a Patriot and that the Dolphins didn’t sign Taylor because they are not in a “win now” mode.
Today it was announced that Jason Taylor signed a 1 year $1.1 million deal with the Miami Dolphins which will also include $400k in incentives. He also admitted to turning down more money from other teams to fit the Miami Dolphins budget and stay with his family.
I think this is the best thing for Taylor to retire as a Dolphin where he made his fame. I do have questions about his work ethic this summer but if he can stay healthy during the season I know he will be a factor if he is used the right way. It will be important for the Dolphins to monitor his playing time and use him only in pass rushing situations. He’s not an every down player anymore and especially not in the 3-4 defense. Taylor will likely play outside linebacker opposite Joey Porter in pass rushing situations where he can speed rush the passer much better than Matt Roth. He may also be used as a defensive end in pass rushing situations since a bulkier run stopping player won’t be needed on plays like 3rd and long. This would give Cameron Wake a chance to come in at strong side linebacker, totaling 3 pass rushing specialists in Porter, Taylor and Wake. It’ll be real tough to keep all of them away from the quarterback at once.
Welcome home JT!
