ESPN analyst surprisingly bullish on Kelvin Taylor’s NFL prospects

Former Florida RB Kelvin Taylor was a solid contributor during his three seasons with the Gators.

But as the NFL Draft approaches, things have been relatively quiet for the son of former Jaguars and Gators great Fred Taylor.

Things may have just got a little more interesting for the younger Taylor.

ESPN NFL analyst Merril Hoge spoke up on Tuesday about what he sees from the tape of the 1,000-yard rusher.

ESPN NFL Analyst Merril Hoge calls Florida RB Kelvin Taylor "one of best runners I've seen in recent memory." Says he can be an NFL starter.

— John Oehser (@JohnOehser) April 5, 2016

That’s high praise, and certainly a change in narrative for the former Gators back that has been projected by many NFL analysts to be a late-round selection later this month.

Perhaps Hoge’s optimism comes from the simplicity of his cuts and his ability to hang on to the football.

Here’s what some others have said about Taylor recently:

Kelvin Taylor's positives are pretty great. He makes smart, hard cuts inside the trenches. Quick not fast. NEVER fumbles. Love his vision

— Matt Miller (@nfldraftscout) March 29, 2016

https://twitter.com/_Gators_/status/714883296371429376

It will be interesting to see where Taylor lands on draft day, and what type of opportunity he may have to see the field as a rookie.

Nick Cole

Nick Cole is a former print journalist with several years of experience covering the SEC. Born and raised in SEC country, he has taken in the game-day experience at all 14 stadiums.