Despite no drafts in the 2014 NFL draft, Taylor Gabriel turned the setback into a prolific wide receiver who played in a Super Bowl. Known for his fiery pace, Taylor has overcome concerns about his talent and size playing for NFL teams like the Atlanta Falcons and Chicago Bears.
Taylor Gabriel’s biography
Taylor Gabriel entered this world on February 17, 1991. He began his athletic career at John Horn High School and despite his diverse athletic background which included soccer, basketball and track and field, he chose soccer where he spent three years as a letterman in wide receiver, cornerback and played kick returner positions. Gabriel’s achievements in football earned him a reputation as an athlete with great hands and tremendous pace. In high school, he earned a Class 5A TSWA All-State position in his senior year with 1,354 yards, 13 touchdowns and 90 catches. His high school career ended with him being named the most valuable player in his district, 11-5A.
He might not have been a draft pick in 2014, but it’s not for lack of talent or notable performances. Gabriel, who played college football for Abilene Christian University, finished his college career as the second-best player in school history with 3,027 years, 215 receptions and 27 touchdowns. Not only has he made a name for himself in football, he graduated with a degree in business at the end of his studies.
Taylor Gabriel’s NFL career
His collegiate accomplishments did not come worthy of the men in the NFL team’s greenhouses, and he went undrafted in the 2014 draft. Not totally ignored, Gabriel was signed by the Cleveland Browns as an undrafted free agent for the 2014 season. In his professional rookie season, he made 36 receptions, rushed for 621 yards and had a touchdown. Despite a not-too-bad stint with the Browns, he was released on September 3, 2016.
Gabriel joined the Chicago Bears in 2018. It is believed that finding the right combinations will unleash the peak performance that is evident in him. He’s already off to a good start, securing just his fourth game – seven receptions in the season and 104 yards from two touchdowns.
family – parents
Taylor Gabriel is the second child of Calvin and Kimberly Gabriel. His father, Calvin, is an IBM software engineer and his mother had a career as a claims adjuster, suggesting he belongs to a minority of black athletes with decent backgrounds.
Its height, weight
One of the concerns about Taylor’s career so far has been his height. Measuring just 5ft 8in at 75kg, the wide receiver is one of the shortest wide receivers in the league. While this is a limiting challenge for other athletes, Taylor doesn’t let it stop him. His athleticism and dynamic pace make him a thorn in the side of opposing teams.
Taylor Gabriel – Other Facts
- Why Taylor Almost Quit Playing Soccer
Taylor lost his mother when he was 15. She died of a brain aneurysm. That devastation caused Taylor to quit football, but the break lasted just a month after he was convinced his mother wanted him to play.
- His nickname
One of Taylor’s defining characteristics is his speed. The young Chicago Bears star has explosive speed and acceleration that leaves fans in awe. It earned the nickname “Turbo” for this quality and it definitely fits.
- Star sign
For Zodiac followers, Taylor’s zodiac sign is Aquarius. He was born on February 17, 1991 and falls under the Aquarius category.