One Jaguars undrafted rookie is already drawing notice before training camp even gets rolling, and running back J’Mari Taylor is the name to know.
John Shipley of Jaguars on SI recently singled out four undrafted rookies to keep an eye on, and Taylor was the first player on the list. Shipley said, "Taylor got off to a good start this offseason, and he is one to watch next month."
The real test, though, comes when the pads go on. Shipley noted that it’s tough to get a full read on running backs before contact is part of the equation, and Taylor sounds ready for that moment.
"First day putting on pads, man, turning into a different animal," Taylor said, via Jamal St. Cyr.
"Guys, they watch me on film; they want to see what I put on film in college and bring it out here. It's all competitive because we all got to do our 1/11th.
Of course we all a team, but may the best man win."
Taylor brings a strong résumé into camp. In 2025, he rushed for 1,064 yards in the ACC and averaged 4.8 yards per carry. He also showed the kind of contact balance that can matter once the hitting starts, ranking 38th in average yards after contact among eligible running backs last season and tying for 18th in missed tackles forced, according to PFF.
That physical style could help him make his case in Liam Coen’s offense, especially with his work as a receiver at Virginia adding another layer to his game.
The uphill climb is obvious, though. The Jaguars already have Bhayshul Tuten, Chris Rodriguez, and LeQuint Allen occupying the top three spots on the running back depth chart, and most teams don’t carry a fourth back. Jacksonville did keep four for much of last season, which at least gives Taylor a path to chase.
He’s also competing with veterans DeeJay Dallas and Ameer Abdullah on the roster, so the battle for a spot is going to be crowded.
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