Mason Taylor, LSU tight end, has emerged as a promising prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft. While not a top-tier candidate like Tyler Warren or Colston Loveland, Taylor’s impressive 2024 season, which included career highs in receptions and yards, has positioned him as a potential Day 2 pick.
Although he isn’t the headline act in this tight end class, Taylor’s background is notable. Raised in a family surrounded by Hall of Fame athletes, his exceptional talent on the field comes as no surprise, reflecting the legacy of his remarkable athletic lineage.
The Athletic Family Behind LSU Tight End Mason Taylor’s Success
Mason Taylor’s athletic prowess can be traced back to his remarkable family background, particularly his father, Jason Taylor, a Hall of Fame defensive end. Jason spent 13 of his 15 NFL seasons with the Miami Dolphins, establishing himself as one of the league’s top defenders.
Drafted in 1997 as a third-round pick, Jason went on to earn three First-Team All-Pro selections, six double-digit sack seasons, and led the NFL with 18.5 sacks in 2002. His career concluded with 139.5 sacks and 46 forced fumbles.
Mason credits his father’s influence, acknowledging the “inside scoop” he gained from Jason throughout his career. At the NFL Scouting Combine, Mason said,
“Yeah, just kind of having that insight, that inside scoop that many people aren’t fortunate to have… just having him in my supportive group and my family, of course, being supportive of me throughout the whole way, throughout ups and downs has been huge.”
Mason’s mother, Katina Thomas, also has strong ties to football. She is the sister of Hall of Fame linebacker Zach Thomas, who spent 13 seasons with the Dolphins. Zach was a five-time First-Team All-Pro, finishing his career with 1,734 tackles, 17 interceptions, and 16 forced fumbles.
Zach received his Hall of Fame distinction in 2023. Mason’s life includes Katina as his important mentor, who teaches him discipline and emphasizes hard work.
Together with her husband, she established the Jason Taylor Foundation, which promotes children’s education while building the community of South Florida.
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Meanwhile, Mason’s family tree is notable for the fact that his aunt, Fox Sports host Joy Taylor, who has been a prominent on-air personality since 2016, is a part of it.
Truly, these stars have defined Mason Taylor’s athletic career and remain his best mentors as he approaches the NFL journey.
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