Leonard Taylor Iii

Career StatsD+

Year	Team	GP	Sacks	Tkl	TFL
Career		19	1.5	35	8
2025		5	0.0	11	2
2024		14	1.5	24	6

Current Contract

Contract Value Index (CVI)

Leonard Taylor III's $0.8M annual deal with the Patriots is an absolute steal that earns an A+ CVI grade, representing exceptional value for a rotational defensive tackle. While Taylor operates as a depth piece rather than a marquee starter, securing quality interior line production at near-minimum salary represents shrewd roster building in an era where decent defensive tackles routinely command $4-6M annually. The Patriots are getting legitimate NFL-caliber depth at a bargain rate, with virtually zero financial risk if Taylor fails to develop beyond his current rotational role. This type of contract structure — low guaranteed money with upside potential — allows New England maximum flexibility while betting on a young player's continued development. For a franchise needing to maximize every salary cap dollar, locking up solid rotational talent like Taylor at this price point is exactly the kind of value play that creates championship-caliber depth charts.

Performance Analysis

Leonard Taylor III earns a D+ grade as a young defensive tackle showing promising flashes with the Patriots. New England has been rebuilding their defensive front, and Taylor is one of the more intriguing interior prospects they've drafted. His quickness off the snap and ability to penetrate gaps have shown up in limited action, suggesting a player whose ceiling is higher than his current production. The Patriots' coaching staff is developing him patiently, which is the right approach for a raw but talented interior defender. A breakout could be coming if the technique catches up to the athletic tools.

Current Sentiment

Leonard Taylor III has generated modest positive buzz as a developmental player who made meaningful contributions during the Patriots' playoff run. The defensive tackle earned praise for key plays like deflecting a field goal attempt and being elevated from the practice squad for crucial postseason games. Media coverage portrays him as a feel-good story of perseverance, with headlines highlighting his journey from being cut by the Jets to becoming a 'Patriots hero' on a Super Bowl contender. His limited career statistics of 1.5 sacks over two seasons reflect his role as a rotational player rather than a featured starter. Overall, fan and media sentiment appears cautiously optimistic about his potential growth, though expectations remain tempered given his backup status and minimal track record.