A new development has emerged in the NFL playoffs as the Houston Texans announced they are releasing former Seattle Seahawks pass rusher Darrell Taylor. This decision comes from a need to activate safety Jaylen Reed from injured reserve prior to Monday’s playoff matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
According to ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter, Taylor, now available on waivers, will be eligible for any teams remaining in the postseason to claim. The 28-year-old recently came off injured reserve himself after an ankle injury and has had a quiet season, participating in just four games with the Texans and recording only three tackles.
Originally selected in the second round of the NFL Draft by the Seahawks in 2020 from the University of Tennessee, Taylor had a promising career trajectory in Seattle. Despite missing his rookie season due to injury, he showcased his potential with 21.5 sacks over three seasons, including a personal best of 9.5 sacks in 2022. However, he did not secure a starting position for more than five games during his tenure with the Seahawks but maintained his health from 2021 to 2023.
Prior to his release, Taylor was traded to the Chicago Bears ahead of the 2024 season, where he played all 16 games and recorded three sacks.
As the Seattle Seahawks prepare for their NFC Divisional Round game against the San Francisco 49ers, the possibility remains that they could face Taylor again if he is picked up by the 49ers. The San Francisco team, struggling with injuries and in dire need of defensive support, especially in their pass rush which recorded the lowest in the league with just 20 sacks this season, has even received calls from their fan base advocating for signing Taylor.
This latest move not only impacts the Texans’ roster but adds an intriguing layer to the Seahawks’ playoff prospects as they could potentially encounter a familiar face in Taylor on the field. The playoff landscape is ever-changing, and with teams making strategic adjustments and acquisitions, the excitement surrounding the postseason only continues to grow.