Coach Claims Tory Taylor's Selection Has Teams Sending 'Angry Texts'
In the fourth round of the 2024 NFL Draft, Ryan Poles and the Chicago Bears made a bold decision by selecting Iowa punter Tory Taylor, positioning him as the new powerhouse for the team's special teams.
Drafting a punter in the early rounds is uncommon, as special teams players typically are selected later, if at all. However, with their final pick in the draft, the Bears seized the opportunity to secure the draft's top punter.
Despite some fans expressing skepticism due to the Bears' imperfect roster, special teams coach Richard Hightower told CHGO that the team is confident in their choice. He shared that other teams have also recognized the value of the pick, saying, "For those surprised by a punter going in the fourth round, the reactions post-draft have affirmed our decision. We've received messages from other special teams coaches and coordinators praising our selection. They regret not picking him first, admitting that 'We got it wrong and you guys got it right.'"
The positive feedback from peers in the league underscores the demand for Taylor, which influenced the Bears to act swiftly. Hightower noted that three other teams have already expressed their disappointment for not drafting Taylor themselves.
Moreover, Tory Taylor leaves Iowa with a legacy as one of the greatest college punters, boasting several NCAA records. He achieved an average of 46.3 yards per punt over his career and accumulated 4,479 total punt yards in 2023 alone�both records. Taylor's precision in placing 32 punts inside the 20-yard line and inducing 29 fair catches last season further highlights his skill.
For his exceptional performance, Taylor received unanimous All-American honors last year and won the Ray Guy Award, recognizing him as the nation's top punter.
Following the draft, the Bears parted ways with Trenton Gill, a seventh-round pick from the 2022 NFL Draft, signaling their commitment to Taylor as the future cornerstone of their special teams.
Hightower expressed excitement about the draft room's reaction to Taylor's selection, emphasizing the strategic advantage he brings to the field. "The enthusiasm was palpable when Tory was drafted. It's thrilling to acquire a player who can be a significant asset in this phase of the game," he stated.
| POLL | ||
9 MAI | 97 ANSWERS Coach Claims Tory Taylor's Selection Has Teams Sending 'Angry Texts' Do you agree with drafting a punter in the early rounds of the NFL Draft? (Yes/No) | ||
| Yes | 81 | 83.5 % |
| No | 16 | 16.5 % |
| List of polls | ||
