Mason Taylor – Fantasy Football Impact on the New York Jets
With the 42nd pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, Mason Taylor was selected by the New York Jets. With a bloodline that includes Hall of Famers Jason Taylor (father) and Zach Thomas (uncle), he was bred into athletic greatness. Taylor brings a satisfying mix of receiving and blocking prowess to the Big Apple. He has the tools to be a fantasy threat from day one, but he could use a little seasoning before we really see what he is capable of in the pros. Continue reading as we break down the fantasy football impact of Taylor with the New York Jets as well as his dynasty outlook.
Mason Taylor Strengths for Fantasy Football Production
Taylor started in 12 or more games in each of his three seasons with LSU. Impressively, he is the only tight end in the school’s history with more than 100 receptions and 1000 receiving yards. Additionally, his size at 6’5” and 251 pounds make him a prime end zone target. Across his three collegiate years, he averaged a healthy 10.1 yards per reception. Unfortunately, Taylor isn’t the best blocking tight end. However, he puts his best effort into every play regardless of assignment.
This year, the Jets will have first-time head coach Aaron Glenn. He’s a former defensive coordinator and standout cornerback. For now, we’re likely to see a more “old school” gameplan in the works. Additionally, with an emphasis on the ground and short-passing game, Taylor could emerge as a key cog for the Jets offense. After witnessing a dangerous Detroit offense that saw Sam LaPorta finish 2023 as the TE1 for fantasy, Glenn and his offensive staff could identify Taylor as a primary target from day one.
Fantasy Football Challenges and Risks
Even with his above average route running and body control after the catch, Taylor may have some difficulty out of the gate. Inexperience will be his greatest enemy, like most NFL rookies. On top of that, perceived starting quarterback Justin Fields is a scrambler that may choose to tuck-and-run rather than check down to his receivers in a pinch.
Furthermore, the Jets still have a lot of pass catchers with considerable experience. Garrett Wilson tops the list with Allen Lazard and Josh Reynolds both having also shown reliability in the pass game. Moreover, Stone Smartt is the possession tight end that will be the biggest competitor at the position and could be the starter come Week 1.
2025 Fantasy Football Outlook
For the upcoming season, I think of Taylor as more of a late-round dart-throw. Specifically, he will be more valuable in tight end premium or 2TE leagues. Additionally, he will carry a bit of a learning curve and he’s not likely to be an every down player right away. However, there is still the potential that he could produce some exciting year one numbers. Fantasy football managers should keep an eye on how things play out in the preseason. Keep an eye on Taylor as someone to spend some FAAB on from the waiver wire if he pops off.
Dynasty Football Outlook
Overall, Taylor’s frame and pedigree make him a tantalizing option for dynasty fantasy football. There will be very few dynasty leagues where he is not drafted, if any. Ultimately, he will likely be a late-second or early-third round selection. With the right coaching and situation, Taylor could definitely fill the role as a stable fantasy football tight end for a number of years.