The Raiders third A-import for the upcoming European League of Football season is a real blockbuster: Devin Taylor, cornerback, is the newest member of the Austrian roster. Taylor last played in the USFL (United States Football League) for the Philadelphia Stars, where he made eight tackles in five games. The defensive back from Lansing, Michigan, has had a strong tenure in college. After his time at J.W. Sexton High School, he chose Illinois State University, where he played in a total of 35 games between 2017 and 2019 (26 starts) and recorded 9 interceptions, 31 pass break-ups, 118 tackles and one sack.

From Virginia Tech University to the NFL

In 2020, Taylor transferred to Virginia Tech University. There, he played ten games for two interceptions and 55 tackles. In 2021, he joined Bowling Green University, where he made a name for himself with two interceptions and 37 tackles. After his strong college career, Taylor was part of the Washington Commanders in 2022 and was able to gain experience in the NFL. In 2023, he made the move to the USFL with the Philadelphia Stars. Now Taylor is heading to the European League of Football.

Devin Taylor with Bowling Green. © Bowling Green Athletics

Taylor: "A hell of a season"

Devin Taylor: "How are you Raiders fans doing? Thanks for the opportunity. I can't wait to get to Innsbruck - it's going to be a hell of a season!"

Jim Herrmann, head coach, was also part of the Bowling Green (2019): "I've been very fortunate in my career to coach and work with some really good football players. Two of those players happened to play corner: Charles Woodson and Ty Law, who both made the NFL Hall of Fame. Both had similar traits that made them great corner players in my opinion. They were fierce competitors, both possessed instincts, were always one step ahead, and they were probably two of the toughest players I've ever coached." he said and added: "I think we found a young man who has the same qualities: Devin Taylor. Devin is a very versatile player, able to cover the opponent or take away one side of the field. But what I like most about him is that he is a rugged player, which sets him apart from most cornerbacks. We're all looking forward to seeing him in action this season."

For the Raiders it'll be their third season in the ELF in 2024.