The Jacksonville Jaguars announced that they signed 18 undrafted free agents following the conclusion of the 2026 NFL draft. Let’s take a closer look at these players and highlight why each could make a potential roster push.
Up next is Virginia running back J’Mari Taylor.
What to know about J’Mari Taylor
Taylor was a big factor in the passing game from the running back position, totaling 128 targets over four seasons, 54 of which came in 2025, and was tied for the fourth-most among all running backs.
As a ball carrier, he averaged 4.8 yards per rush at Virginia in 2025, eclipsing the 1,000-yard mark while scoring 14 rushing touchdowns. He proved to be difficult to bring down, ranking 38th in average yards after contact and tied for 18th in missed tackles forced, per PFF.
J’Mari Taylor’s athletic profile
J’Mari Taylor’s draft profile
“Despite lacking ideal size, Taylor is a three-down back with proven production. He runs with compact power and elite balance. He’s excellent on short-yardage carries, scoring tough touchdowns and gaining more than is blocked. He “fields his position” with solid vision and open-field burst, but when defenses slow his feet, they slow his processing. His lateral elusiveness is average in the hole and after catches underneath. His willingness and talent on third downs should create an opportunity as a complementary “thunder” back capable of handling a three-down backup role.” – Lance Zierlien, NFL.com
Why could RB J’Mari Taylor make a roster push?
For a large portion of last season, the Jaguars carried four running backs on the 53-man roster. Compared to the rest of the NFL, that’s a bit unusual, with most teams carrying only three. But if Taylor impresses this summer, the Jaguars have shown a willingness to go heavy at running back, and may be more willing to do that again in 2026 with a younger room overall.
This article originally appeared on Jaguars Wire: Jaguars’ UDFA profiles: Why RB J’Mari Taylor could make roster push?
Reporting by Paul Bretl, Jaguars Wire / Jaguars Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
