Fins Jason Taylor To Retire After Jets Game
MIAMI (CBSMiami) – This Sunday's game against the New York Jets will be the last for Miami Dolphins line backer Jason Taylor.
Taylor will hang up his cleats after a 223 game 15 year career. Taylor made the announcement Wednesday afternoon from Dolphins training camp.
Drafted by the Dolphins in the third round of the 1997 NFL Draft, Taylor has been a Pro Bowl selection six times and in 2006 was named the NFL's Defensive Player of the Year. Taylor has also scored more fumble returns for touchdowns (nine) than any other defensive linemen.
During his career Taylor also played with the Washington Redskins and the New York Jets.
In addition to being a four time All-Pro, Taylor also received the 2007 Walter Payton Man of the Year Award, the only league honor that recognizes both on-field achievements and off-the-field contributions.
After Taylor's announcement, Dolphins owner Stephen Ross released this statement:
"I want to thank Jason for all he has done for the Dolphins and the South Florida community. His contributions on the field as one of the greatest players in team history will be remembered by Dolphin fans for years to come, and his charitable works off the field that has benefited so many people will leave a timeless legacy of his community service. When I think of Jason, a few things stand out in my mind -- his dynamic role as one of the most feared defensive players in NFL history, a devoted husband and father, and one of the most generous and caring members of our community. Whether it's organizing his "Cool Gear for the School Year" shopping spree for needy children, relentlessly running down a quarterback out of the pocket, or chasing his boys around the Dolphin locker room, Jason exemplifies what it means to be a professional athlete and a role model. While he may be retiring as a player, he will always remain an integral part of the Dolphin family, contributing to the team and the community he has grown to love. We congratulate him for all he has done, and we are looking forward to continuing to work with him as he begins the next chapter of his life."
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