Taylor's career began with a promising rookie season, where he demonstrated his potential by starting in 13 games and recording five sacks. Over the years, his performance only improved, and he became a cornerstone of the Dolphins' defense. His ability to pressure quarterbacks and disrupt offensive plays was a significant asset to the team. In 2002, Taylor led the NFL with 18.5 sacks, earning him the NFL Defensive Player of the Year award.
Throughout his career, Taylor was selected to the Pro Bowl six times and was named a First-Team All-Pro three times. His knack for forcing fumbles and scoring defensive touchdowns added to his reputation as a defensive powerhouse. Taylor's athleticism and strategic play allowed him to accumulate 139.5 career sacks, placing him among the top sack leaders in NFL history at the time of his retirement.
In addition to his time with the Dolphins, Taylor also played for the Washington Redskins and the New York Jets. His stint with the Redskins in 2008 was brief, and he returned to the Dolphins the following year. In 2010, Taylor joined the Jets, where he continued to demonstrate his defensive prowess before returning to Miami for his final season in 2011.
Off the field, Taylor was known for his leadership and sportsmanship. He was awarded the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award in 2007, recognizing his excellence both on and off the field. Taylor's influence extended beyond his playing days, as he later transitioned into a career in sports analysis and philanthropy.
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