Mason Taylor grew up as a kid around NFL players, and today, he became one himself when the New York Jets selected him with the 42nd overall pick in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft.

Taylor’s strong hands, route-running and ability to make contested catches set him apart from the other tight ends in this draft class.

Taylor also possesses elite blocking skills, making him a productive tight end at the next level. He joins other high-caliber tight ends Brian Kelly has produced in his career, such as Kyle Rudolph, Cole Kmet and Tyler Eifert.

NFL analyst Lance Zierlein said Taylor is an “ascending tight end with plus catch talent and Hall of Fame bloodlines.” Taylor is the son of Pro Football Hall of Fame defensive end Jason Taylor and nephew of Pro Football Hall of Fame linebacker Zach Thomas.

Taylor set program records for career yards and receptions among tight ends with 1,308 yards in 129 receptions in his three seasons at LSU.