Interview: 3-Star 2023 California ATH/WR Derek Taylor is Part of the New Era Offensive Movement
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
Hilmar High School football talent Derek Taylor is part of a movement that will soon be taking hold at the collegiate and professional levels, and that is a do-all skill player on offense that defies the old concepts of the game. At 6-7, 215 pounds, Taylor is a receiver who can also play tight end… defensive end, outside linebacker, and return punts.
During the Yellowjackets five-game 2020 season, Taylor secured 13 passes stretching the field for 260 yards with four touchdowns earning first team All-League honors. Further showcasing his athletic talents, he tacked on a 67-yard punt return for a touchdown and helped shut down opposing California offenses at end/outside linebacker ending 28 plays, 21 solo, with two tackles for a loss, three sacks, a pick, three passes broken up, and forced a fumble.
In an RNG first-look interview, Taylor, still in basketball season, took a break giving us insight on his two-sport abilities.
Interview
Derek, you may be a first for me. I don’t remember interviewing many 6-foot 7-inch punt returners who can take it to the house. How did the 2020 season go for you this spring takes punts back?
(Laughs) It was new. It was definitely a different experience returning punts. Very different than playing end and receiver.
Let’s get into the offensive set for the Yellowjackets. What system were you guys executing?
We were a Spread offense.
At tight end, where all were they lining you up and how were they utilizing your skills in the scheme?
We had certain plays at tight end but most of the time I would be out wide. They had me blocking, or if against a smaller corner getting me the ball. We’d look for the mismatches.
As a blocker, which areas of your game improved the most?
My run blocking improved a lot. I was getting used to the speed on varsity, with the run and the pass blocking.
Which routes were you running in the passing attack?
Posts, slants, streaks, and corners.
You also made an impact on defense. What scheme were you guys running and what were your responsibilities?
I would play end or outside linebacker. We ran one or two deep safeties with four linebackers. It depended on how they lined up. Sometimes I covered and sometimes I rushed the quarterback.
What is your favorite position to play?
I like outside linebacker and end on defense. On offense, I really love playing receiver.
This offseason, what are you working on as a receiving threat?
Mainly my footwork, speed, and route running.
What are you doing to push your abilities forward on defense?
I am working with my hands, working on getting defenders of me, and my strength.
What are you doing to increase your speed and athleticism this spring?
Ladders, running more, and trying to run routes to get my routes better.
Are you going to any college camps this summer?
Yes, in two weeks I am going to the Sac State camp.
You also play basketball for Hilmar, how is the season going?
We have two more games left; we are undefeated. I am averaging around 20 points and around 11 rebounds.
Nice. Have you gotten any poster dunks this year?
Yeah, one or two.
Which positions do you play?
I play small forward, but I can play center if needed.
Derek, thanks for your time today. Wishing you success with the rest of your basketball season and the upcoming college camp.
Thank you.
Photo credit: Taylor family; Derek Taylor