West Virginia tight end Kole Taylor is an intriguing prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft. A former 3-star recruit who once landed at LSU, Taylor eventually found his game with the Mountaineers. This past season, he was a consistent standout on a struggling passing offense.
Taylor recently spoke exclusively with The Draft Network. Taylor discussed attending this year's Hula Bowl, which teams are showing interest in his services, displaying pass-catching upside, and more.
JM: You recently participated in the Hula Bowl. What was the overall experience like?
Kole Taylor: It was a really good experience. I’m never going to turn down an opportunity to play a little football. Obviously, that opportunity [Hula Bowl] was presented to me and I took advantage of it. I tried to make the most of it.
There was some great competition at the Hula Bowl. I never felt out of place or anything like that. I had a great, competitive weekend. I made a name for myself.
JM: What do you think you proved to scouts in attendance?
Kole Taylor: I think I proved that I’m an all-around tight end. I did great in the passing game. I was able to hold my own as an in-line blocker in the run game as well. I highlighted my ball skills and overall versatility.
JM: You probably met with most teams at the Hula Bowl. That's standard practice. Did any of those team meetings particularly stand out? Which teams spent more time with you?
Kole Taylor: I had a good meeting with the Miami Dolphins. I met with them early in the week. We watched some film together and I thought that went really well. I was able to highlight who I am as a football player during that session. I got a great vibe from them.
There were a few others. I thought the meeting with the Kansas City Chiefs went well. I met with two of their staffers. I met with a bunch of teams in total, the 49ers, Ravens, Cardinals, Jaguars, Buccaneers, Falcons, Lions, Bears, and a few others. All of them were very excited about the player I can be at the next level. I didn’t leave any meeting with a bad taste in my mouth.
JM: There’s a lot of interest in you and it’s easy to see why. You were very consistent at West Virginia, recording career highs in receptions and receiving yards this past season. Talk to me about being a weapon in the passing game. The offense wasn't always effective, but you found ways to remain productive.
Kole Taylor: I think it meant something that I managed to stay productive throughout my entire career. Every game I played in at West Virginia, I recorded at least one catch. I never went a game without a reception, including Bowl games, and including one or two games where I was on a pitch count.
I feel like I was super consistent at West Virginia. I carved out a role for myself early and I was able to consistently help the offense however I could. I ranked first on the team in receptions in 2023. This past year, I was second in receptions and receiving yards.
I always had a big role on the offense and in the passing game.
JM: You were super consistent. Do you have a favorite route to run?
Kole Taylor: I love anything across the middle. I can use my big frame and position my body to go up and come down with it.
JM: Now that you've had time to think about it, how do you reflect on the decision to transfer from LSU to West Virginia?
Kole Taylor: I had a great time at LSU. I don’t regret having attended LSU in the first place by any means. I was just in more of an in-line blocking role, and I wanted to show more potential as a pass catcher. That’s exactly what I did at West Virginia. I wanted to elevate my game to new heights.
I had to make that change. Like you said, I was very productive at West Virginia. It was a move that was made in my best interest. I was able to successfully do that. I don’t regret anything about my time at LSU or West Virginia. I’m thankful for every opportunity that was given to me by both programs.
JM: We've appreciated your time today. This has been awesome. When a team drafts Kole Taylor, what kinda guy are they getting?
Kole Taylor: They’re getting a consistent player. I’m willing to do whatever it takes to help the team win. I can help in both the run and pass game. I can play on special teams as well. I’m willing to put my body on the line week in, week out.
I’m just a super consistent person. I’m the same dude every single day. That’s what you’re getting.
