The New England Patriots confirmed that defensive lineman Leonard Taylor III made the game-changing play in Sunday’s AFC Championship Game victory over Denver. Taylor blocked a field goal attempt in the fourth quarter that preserved New England’s 10-7 win.
Taylor was elevated from the practice squad before the game. He wasn’t expected to see significant playing time.
The former Miami standout has bounced between practice squads since entering the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2024. The Jets released him in October after a brief stint on their roster.
New England signed Taylor without guarantees. He’s spent most of the season moving between the practice squad and active roster, preparing each week without knowing if he’d suit up on Sunday.
Fourth Quarter Block Changes Everything
Denver lined up for a field goal that would’ve tied the game with under six minutes remaining. Taylor timed the snap perfectly, pushed through the line, and got enough of the ball to alter it’s trajectory.
The kick sailed wide left.
That one play preserved New England’s lead and ultimately sent them to the Super Bowl.
Teammates immediately swarmed Taylor on the sideline. They understood what the moment meant for a player who’d been cut, overlooked, and kept waiting all season.
Patriots defensive coordinator Mike Vrabel praised Taylor’s preparation after the game. “He’s been ready every single week, whether he was active or not,” Vrabel told reporters.
Undrafted Journey
Taylor spent three seasons at Miami before going undrafted. He recorded 89 tackles and 12 sacks during his college career, but NFL teams passed on him in April’s draft.
The 6-foot-2, 285-pound lineman signed with New York as a priority free agent. He appeared in four games before his release.
New England claimed him off waivers in late October. He’s been elevated from the practice squad six times this season, including for both playoff games.
This is how careers are sustained in the NFL. Not with guarantees or comfort, but with constant readiness. Taylor stayed prepared through months of uncertainty.
When his moment arrived on the biggest stage, he delivered.
