The Chicago Bears recently bolstered their defensive line by trading a 2025 sixth-round pick to the Seattle Seahawks for edge rusher Darrell Taylor. Taylor, a former second-round pick, brings a unique blend of athleticism and potential that could significantly impact the Bears’ defense. Here are 10 things you might not know about the Bears’ new pass-rushing threat.
1. High Draft Pedigree
The Seahawks selected Darrell Taylor 48th overall in the 2020 NFL Draft. The University of Tennessee standout was highly regarded for his speed and explosiveness off the edge, which made him one of the top pass rushers in his draft class.
2. Rookie Year Setback
Taylor’s rookie season was essentially a redshirt year. A leg injury in his final college season required surgery, and complications from the procedure kept him sidelined for the entire 2020 season. Despite this setback, Seattle remained optimistic about his future, which speaks to his talent level.
3. Impressive Debut Season
Taylor made up for lost time in his second season, recording 6.5 sacks in 2021. This total was the second-highest among all rookies that year, trailing only Dallas Cowboys’ star Micah Parsons. Taylor’s ability to pressure the quarterback was evident from the start, showcasing his potential as a disruptive force on the defensive line.
4. Efficiency as a Pass Rusher
One of the most striking aspects of Taylor’s game is his efficiency. In 2022, despite playing in a rotational role, he recorded a pressure rate of 14.8% on his pass-rushing snaps. This ranked him among the top 20 edge rushers in the NFL, indicating that when Taylor is on the field, he is a threat to get to the quarterback.
New Bears pass rusher Darrell Taylor
— Adam Jahns (@adamjahns) August 23, 2024
– 2020 second-round pick (No. 48)
– Missed all of his rookie season
– Career-high 9.5 sacks in 2022
– Career-high 4 FF in 2022
– 22 TFL over three seasons
– Signed one-year deal with SEA on March 13
– 27 years old
5. Versatility on the Defensive Line
Taylor has shown the ability to line up in various spots along the defensive line. While primarily an edge rusher, he has the flexibility to move inside on passing downs, providing additional options for defensive coordinators. This versatility is something the Bears will likely exploit to create mismatches against opposing offensive lines.
6. College Production
At Tennessee, Taylor was a consistent producer. Over his final two seasons with the Volunteers, he recorded 16.5 sacks and 21 tackles for loss. His college production, coupled with his physical attributes, made him a highly coveted prospect coming out of the SEC, a conference known for its elite level of competition.
7. Under-the-Radar Run Defender
While Taylor is primarily known for his pass-rushing abilities, his impact as a run defender shouldn’t be overlooked. In 2022, he posted a run-stop percentage of 6.5%, a respectable figure for an edge defender. His ability to set the edge and make plays in the backfield will be crucial for the Bears, particularly in a division that features strong running teams.
8. Athletic Profile
Taylor’s athleticism is one of his standout traits. He possesses a rare combination of speed and power, running a 4.69-second 40-yard dash at 6’4” and 267 pounds during his pre-draft process. His explosive first step and ability to bend around the edge make him a nightmare for opposing tackles.
9. Special Teams Contributor
In addition to his defensive contributions, Taylor has been a key player on special teams. His size and speed make him an ideal candidate for coverage units, and he’s not afraid to impact that phase of the game. The Bears could utilize him similarly, adding value beyond his defensive snaps.
10. Potential Breakout Candidate
Taylor enters the 2024 season as a prime breakout candidate. With the Bears investing in his potential, he could see an expanded role in Chicago’s defense. Given his flashes of brilliance in Seattle and his continued development, Taylor could emerge as one of the NFL’s most underrated pass rushers this season.
New #Bears edge rusher Darrell Taylor:
— Jacob Infante (@jacobinfante24) August 23, 2024
• 21.5 sacks in last 3 years
• 90 pressures in time with Seattle
• 34 total QB hits
• 2 missed games in 3 years
• Still just 27 years old
For a sixth-round pick, that’s pretty damn good value.
Taylor’s addition to the Chicago Bears’ roster boosts their pass rush and overall defensive versatility. As the Bears continue to reshape their defense under head coach Matt Eberflus, Taylor’s ability to disrupt opposing quarterbacks will be invaluable. His knack for getting to the quarterback, evidenced by his impressive pressure rate, complements the Bears’ existing defensive linemen. Furthermore, his experience and effectiveness on special teams add another layer of depth to his role, making him a valuable asset beyond just defensive snaps. With his blend of athleticism, power, and untapped potential, Taylor fits seamlessly into the Bears’ defensive strategy, providing a young, high-upside player who could become a cornerstone of their defensive line. His arrival signals the Bears’ commitment to building a fast, aggressive defense capable of challenging any offense in the NFL. As he continues to develop, Taylor has the opportunity to elevate the Bears’ defense and become a key player in their pursuit of returning to playoff contention.
