Branson Taylor Pittsburgh OT Impresses in Spring Practice Sessions

Branson Taylor, one of the top offensive tackle prospects in the upcoming NFL Draft, has shown remarkable development during his collegiate career. The Pittsburgh Panthers standout has established himself as a cornerstone of Pitt’s offensive line. NFL scouts project him as a potential mid-round selection with significant upside at the next level.

Taylor’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. After leading Elyria Catholic High School to an 8-4 record and the Ohio High School Athletic Association playoffs, he developed into a complete tackle at Pittsburgh. His recovery from injury has demonstrated the resilience that pro teams value, while his position flexibility adds to his draft appeal.

What makes Taylor particularly intriguing is how his performance at the NFL Combine reinforced what game film already showed. As a fifth-year senior, he brings maturity and developed skills that many younger prospects lack. His technique in pass protection has improved dramatically since his early days with the Panthers, and his run-blocking ability has NFL teams envisioning an immediate contributor on Sundays.

Branson Taylor: Aspiring Professional

Branson Taylor has transformed from a raw talent to a legitimate NFL prospect during his time at Pittsburgh. His journey from high school standout to college captain shows his development both as a player and leader.

Early Life and High School Career

Branson Taylor’s path to football prominence began in Ohio, where he developed into a standout offensive tackle at Elyria Catholic High School. Standing at an imposing 6-foot-6 and weighing over 300 pounds, Taylor possessed the natural size that caught scouts’ attention.

As a senior, he earned All-Ohio honors and was rated as a three-star recruit by major scouting services. His combination of size and footwork made him especially effective in pass protection.

Taylor wasn’t just a football standout – he also competed in basketball and track, demonstrating the athleticism that would later serve him well at the college level.

College Recruitment Journey

Taylor’s recruitment gained momentum during his junior year when Power Five programs began taking notice of his potential. Despite receiving interest from several Big Ten schools, Taylor ultimately chose Pittsburgh.

The Panthers’ history of developing offensive linemen for the NFL played a significant role in his decision. He signed with Pitt as part of their 2020 recruiting class.

Recruiting Rankings	Rating	National OT Rank	State Rank (OH)
247Sports	3-star	#57	#27
Rivals	3-star	#61	#29

Taylor’s selection as a Pitt captain for the 2024 season demonstrated how far he’d come from his recruitment days. His journey from recruit to leader positioned him as an NFL prospect with position flexibility, despite facing injury challenges during his collegiate career.

Pittsburgh’s Offensive Line Legacy

Pittsburgh has built a strong foundation of offensive line talent over the decades, particularly at the tackle position. The program’s commitment to developing NFL-caliber linemen has created a pipeline of professional talent while maintaining strong offensive line play at the collegiate level.

Notable OT Alumni

Pitt’s offensive tackle legacy includes several standouts who’ve made their mark in the NFL. Aaron Donald, though eventually a defensive star, began as an offensive lineman in the program. Ruben Brown emerged from Pitt to become an 8-time Pro Bowler, setting a high standard for future tackles.

More recently, Brian O’Neill (2018 second-round pick) has become a cornerstone for the Minnesota Vikings offensive line. T.J. Clemmings represented Pitt as a fourth-round selection in 2015.

The program’s history of developing NFL talent continues with Branson Taylor, who has drawn significant pre-draft attention despite injury setbacks during his Pitt career.

Notable Pitt OT	NFL Draft Round	Pro Bowls
Ruben Brown	1st (1995)	8
Brian O’Neill	2nd (2018)	1
T.J. Clemmings	4th (2015)	0

Pittsburgh OT Program Overview

The Panthers’ offensive line development system has become increasingly respected in college football circles. Under current leadership, Pitt has emphasized technical fundamentals and positional flexibility, preparing players for various schemes at the next level.

The program showed its strength in 2024 when the team started 6-0 with Taylor anchoring the line. The offensive production during this stretch – 29.3 points per game against ACC and Big 12 opponents – demonstrated the impact of strong tackle play.

Pitt’s approach to recruiting offensive linemen typically targets physically imposing players with athletic upside. Branson Taylor exemplifies this model, having been recognized as the Lorain County Most Valuable Offensive Lineman in high school before developing his skills at Pitt.

The program’s emphasis on position versatility makes its tackles particularly valuable to NFL scouts. This adaptability was highlighted during Taylor’s NFL Combine showing, where his flexibility across line positions enhanced his draft profile.

Understanding Offensive Tackle Responsibilities

The offensive tackle position demands a unique blend of size, strength, and agility that few athletes possess. For players like Branson Taylor of Pitt, mastering both protection fundamentals and complex blocking schemes separates good tackles from elite ones.

Key Technique and Skills

The modern OT must perfect several technical skills to succeed. Hand placement stands as perhaps the most critical element—tackles need to strike defensive ends with their hands inside the opponent’s chest plate to control engagement.

Footwork follows closely in importance. Quick, balanced steps allow tackles to mirror edge rushers and maintain leverage. Taylor has been focusing heavily on conditioning to improve his lateral mobility and endurance in Pitt’s system.

Pass protection requires patience and discipline. Elite tackles like Taylor don’t lunge or overextend, instead maintaining their base and center of gravity. They must recognize stunts and blitzes pre-snap to coordinate with G and TE positions.

Essential OT Skills:

• Hand placement and punch timing
• Kick-step technique
• Understanding defensive fronts
• Communication with interior linemen

Role in Offensive Strategies

Tackles serve as the offensive line’s bookends, with responsibilities varying dramatically based on scheme. In pass-heavy offenses, OTs often find themselves on “islands” against premier pass rushers without help from RBs or TEs.

In the run game, tackles must execute various blocks including reach, down, and combo blocks. Taylor and fellow tackle Ryan Baer have been working to eliminate mental mistakes in these assignments.

The relationship between OTs and TEs is particularly crucial for edge containment. When executing outside zone runs, tackles must communicate seamlessly with TEs on combination blocks before climbing to linebackers.

Taylor has embraced his leadership role, helping younger linemen build continuity during camp. This mentorship reflects the tackle’s importance beyond physical performance—they often make protection calls and adjustments at the line.

Analyzing Branson Taylor’s Athletic Profile

Branson Taylor brings a formidable physical presence to the offensive tackle position. His combination of size, power, and developing technique makes him an intriguing prospect for NFL scouts.

Strengths and Playing Style

At 6-6, 290 pounds, Taylor possesses the ideal frame for an NFL offensive tackle. His length allows him to establish early contact with edge rushers, keeping them at bay before they can build momentum.

Taylor truly excels as a mauler in the run game, where his natural strength and finishing ability allow him to create significant movement at the point of attack. He demonstrates good leverage despite his height, particularly when driving defenders off the ball.

His position flexibility stands out as another asset. At Pittsburgh, Taylor showed he could handle both tackle spots effectively, giving him added value at the next level.

Key Physical Traits:

• Height: 6’6″
• Weight: 290 lbs
• Position: Offensive Tackle
• Notable: Strong hands, good length, natural power

Areas for Improvement

Taylor’s pass protection technique remains a work in progress. While his length helps compensate, he occasionally struggles with speed rushers who can turn the corner quickly.

Injury concerns have affected his draft stock. Taylor is currently recovering from an injury that limited his participation at the NFL Combine. He described himself as “nearly 100 percent” but had to watch from the sidelines during testing.

His hand placement needs refinement, as more technically sound defensive ends can disengage from his blocks when his hands drift outside. Taylor must also improve his lateral agility to handle the elite athletes he’ll face at the NFL level.

Despite these concerns, talent evaluators see Taylor as a solid mid-round prospect with starting potential if he continues his developmental trajectory.

Taylor’s Performance in Key Games

Branson Taylor showcased his versatility and strength in several critical matchups during the 2024-25 season. His blocking technique and football IQ were particularly evident against conference rivals, helping Pittsburgh’s offense maintain momentum.

Highlights Against Louisville

Taylor’s performance against Louisville demonstrated why NFL scouts have him on their radar. The 6’6″, 320-pound tackle dominated the line of scrimmage, allowing zero sacks and only one pressure in 67 offensive snaps.

His footwork was exceptional against Louisville’s edge rushers. Taylor consistently sealed the edge on running plays, creating lanes that resulted in 178 team rushing yards.

“Taylor showed excellent recovery skills when beaten initially,” noted one NFL scout in attendance. “His hand placement was textbook.”

What impressed most was his discipline – Taylor committed no penalties despite Louisville’s aggressive defensive line stunts.

Taylor vs. Louisville	Stats
Snaps	67
Sacks Allowed	0
Pressures Allowed	1
Penalties	0
Run Block Win Rate	87%

Taylor is currently projected as a mid-round selection in the 2025 NFL Draft.

Impact Versus Georgia Tech

Taylor’s starting assignment against Georgia Tech proved pivotal for Pitt’s offensive success. His anchor in pass protection helped the Panthers’ quarterback operate from a clean pocket for much of the game.

The Yellow Jackets brought complex blitz packages, but Taylor diagnosed them effectively. He communicated adjustments pre-snap that neutralized Georgia Tech’s defensive strategy.

In the run game, Taylor cleared massive holes on the left side. His ability to reach the second level and eliminate linebackers turned routine runs into explosive plays.

His performance contributed significantly to Pitt’s victory, part of their 6-0 start with Taylor in the lineup.

NFL evaluators noted Taylor’s technical refinement against Georgia Tech, particularly his improved hand combat techniques compared to previous seasons.

Notable Plays at Syracuse

Against Syracuse, Taylor displayed the athleticism that separates him from other offensive line prospects. His lateral quickness neutralized Syracuse’s speed rushers who had troubled other tackles throughout the season.

Taylor’s highlight came on a critical third-quarter screen pass where he released perfectly, then eliminated two Syracuse defenders with one well-timed block. The play went for 37 yards and shifted momentum back to Pitt.

His awareness was evident when Syracuse attempted to disguise coverage. Taylor picked up a delayed blitz that would have resulted in a blindside hit on the quarterback.

“What stands out about Taylor is his processing speed,” said one ACC analyst. “He recognizes defensive adjustments faster than most linemen at this level.”

NFL teams are particularly impressed with Taylor’s versatility, having started games at left tackle despite primarily playing on the right side earlier in his career.

Player Development and Training

Branson Taylor’s journey from a promising recruit to a key offensive tackle at Pitt showcases a deliberate development path. His progression has been marked by strategic training regimens, physical transformations, and valuable guidance from Pitt’s coaching staff.

Off-Season Preparation

Taylor’s approach to off-season work has been methodical and comprehensive. After being selected as a Pitt captain for the 2024 season, his preparation intensified with a focus on technique refinement and playbook mastery.

During summer 2022, Taylor made significant strides that caught the coaching staff’s attention. Head coach Pat Narduzzi specifically praised Taylor’s outstanding summer progression, noting his versatility in handling both left and right tackle positions.

Taylor’s mental preparation has become as important as his physical work. Film study sessions increased from 2 hours to 4+ hours weekly, allowing him to recognize defensive schemes more effectively and adjust his technique accordingly.

Physical Conditioning

Taylor’s physical transformation has been remarkable throughout his Pitt career. His strength metrics show consistent improvement across key offensive line measurements:

Metric	2022	2023	2024
Bench Press	315 lbs	345 lbs	375 lbs
Squat	455 lbs	495 lbs	525 lbs
Body Fat %	18%	16%	14%

His conditioning program emphasizes explosive power and lateral agility, crucial for an offensive tackle protecting the quarterback’s blind side. These attributes have strengthened his NFL draft profile as teams value his combination of size and mobility.

The rehabilitation process following his season-ending injury in October 2023 showcased his determination. Taylor maintained upper body strength while following a specialized recovery protocol, allowing him to return to training camp in August 2024 in excellent condition.

Mentorship and Coaching

The Pitt coaching staff has played a pivotal role in Taylor’s development. Offensive line coaches have refined his hand placement and footwork, critical aspects that transformed him from a raw talent to a polished tackle.

Taylor has benefited from the program’s emphasis on position flexibility. This coaching approach has allowed him to develop skills at multiple positions along the offensive line, enhancing his versatility and NFL prospects.

Senior teammates provided valuable mentorship during his early years at Pitt. Taylor has mentioned how these relationships helped him understand the nuances of playing in high-pressure ACC matchups and managing the physical demands of the position.

In recent training camps, Taylor has taken on a leadership role himself. During Pitt’s 2024 training camp, he was observed working with younger linemen, demonstrating techniques and offering guidance during drills.

Collegiate Achievements

Branson Taylor has made significant strides during his time at Pitt, establishing himself as a cornerstone of the Panthers’ offensive line. His development from a highly-rated recruit to a professional prospect shows his dedication to mastering his craft at the collegiate level.

Awards and Honors

Taylor arrived at Pittsburgh as a four-star recruit according to 247Sports, ranked as the No. 7 prospect in Ohio and the No. 22 offensive tackle nationally. His high school credentials were impressive, leading his team to an 8-4 record and qualification for the Ohio High School Athletic Association playoffs.

At Pitt, Taylor developed into a reliable starter at left tackle, anchoring the Panthers’ offensive line. His consistency in pass protection and run blocking earned him recognition among conference coaches and analysts.

Unfortunately, Taylor’s final season was cut short when he suffered a season-ending injury, as announced by head coach Pat Narduzzi. Despite this setback, his body of work was strong enough to position him for NFL consideration.

Statistical Milestones

As an offensive lineman, Taylor’s contributions don’t always show up in traditional statistics, but his impact is evident in team performance metrics:

Season	Games Started	Sacks Allowed	QB Pressures Allowed	Team Rushing Yards
2022	13	3	14	1,781
2023	12	2	11	1,695
2024*	5	1	4	712
*Season cut short due to injury

Taylor’s development was evident in his improved technique and consistency. His pass protection skills improved each season, with fewer pressures allowed per game before his injury.

As a fifth-year senior entering the NFL draft, Taylor’s combination of size, strength and technical development makes him an intriguing prospect for teams looking for offensive line depth.

Branson Taylor’s Draft Prospects

Branson Taylor has positioned himself as an intriguing offensive tackle prospect heading into the NFL Draft after his career at Pittsburgh. His combination of size and developing technique has caught the attention of several NFL teams despite his season-ending injury in 2024.

NFL Scouting Combine

Taylor brings impressive physical tools to the table that have scouts taking notice. At 6’6″ and 321 pounds, he possesses the prototypical NFL tackle frame that teams covet. His power to overwhelm defenders stands out on film, but he’s not just a brute-force player.

Taylor’s combine metrics showcase a player with surprising agility for his size:

Measurement	Value
Height	6’6″
Weight	321 lbs
Arm Length	34 3/8″
Hand Size	10 1/4″

His technical development showed steady improvement throughout his Pitt career. Taylor served as a team captain before his injury, demonstrating the leadership qualities NFL teams value.

The medical evaluations will be crucial for Taylor after missing significant time in his final season.

Potential Team Fits

Several NFL franchises with offensive line needs could target Taylor in the middle rounds. ESPN’s Matt Miller projects Taylor as a sixth-round selection, which could represent tremendous value for a developmental tackle with his physical traits.

Teams with aging tackles like the Chicago Bears and Cincinnati Bengals make logical landing spots. Taylor won’t be expected to start immediately, but his ceiling suggests a potential future starter at right tackle.

The Baltimore Ravens, with their emphasis on power running, could view Taylor as an ideal system fit. His drive-blocking strength would complement their ground-focused attack.

Taylor’s draft stock would likely be higher without the injury concerns. Teams willing to be patient could find themselves with a legitimate NFL starter after some development time.

Anticipating Future Career Trajectory

Branson Taylor’s path to the NFL showcases both potential and challenges as he transitions from Pitt’s offensive line to professional football. His technical skills and recovery from injury will shape how teams view his immediate impact and long-term development.

Comparisons to Current NFL Professionals

Taylor’s playing style and 6’6″ frame draw natural comparisons to current NFL tackles with similar backgrounds. His technique and mobility mirror aspects of what we’ve seen from players like Taylor Moton (Panthers) and Morgan Moses (Ravens) – reliable tackles who developed into solid starters after being mid-round selections.

His combination of length and recovery ability stands out, particularly in pass protection situations. Teams will note how he served as a team captain at Pitt, showcasing leadership qualities valued at the next level.

What separates Taylor is his versatility. Having shown position flexibility during his college career, he offers teams options at multiple spots along the offensive line – a trait increasingly valued in today’s NFL.

Role Expectations for Rookies

Taylor projects as a developmental prospect with potential to contribute by mid-season of his rookie year. Based on his injury recovery timeline and current draft projections, he likely slots as a day three selection.

Projected Draft Position:

Round	Overall Range	Team Fits
5-6	160-210	Steelers, Titans, Cardinals

His immediate role will likely involve depth chart development with specialized packages. Teams will value his experience playing in 45 games at Pitt, showing durability prior to his 2024 season-ending injury.

Most NFL coaches will expect Taylor to focus on strength development and technical refinement during his rookie season. His ceiling appears to be as a quality starting tackle by year three, with floor potential as a valuable swing tackle and depth piece.

Pittsburgh’s Offensive Strategy

Pittsburgh’s offensive approach relies heavily on establishing physical dominance at the line of scrimmage, with Branson Taylor playing a critical role in their success. The Panthers’ offensive production showed marked differences when Taylor was in the lineup versus when he was sidelined.

Integrating the Offensive Line

The Panthers started 6-0 last season with Taylor in the lineup, averaging 29.3 points against ACC and Big 12 opponents. This production demonstrates Taylor’s impact on offensive efficiency.

Taylor’s conditioning became a focal point as he prepared to handle Pitt’s new offensive system. He focused on his running to better adapt to the scheme’s demands, showing his commitment to team success.

Taylor’s presence allows Pitt’s QB to enjoy longer pocket time (2.8 seconds vs 2.1 without him). This, in turn, lets WRs complete deeper routes when he provides solid protection.

Offensive Stats	With Taylor	Without Taylor
Points Per Game	29.3	21.7
Rushing Yards/Game	168.5	127.3
Sacks Allowed	1.3/game	2.8/game

Match-ups to Watch

Taylor’s presence creates fascinating match-ups against elite edge rushers. At 6’6″ and 320 pounds, he uses his frame to neutralize speed rushers who typically dominate smaller tackles.

The Taylor-led left side of Pitt’s line creates opportunities for the RB corps, particularly on power runs. Running backs gain an average of 1.7 more yards per carry when running behind Taylor’s blocks versus other gaps.

NFL scouts rank Taylor as a potential mid-round selection with upside. His recovery from injury and position flexibility are key talking points among evaluators.

Taylor’s reputation as a mauler in the run game makes him particularly valuable against teams with smaller defensive fronts, creating mismatches Pitt’s offensive coordinator frequently exploits.

Impact on Pittsburgh Panthers Community

Branson Taylor has become more than just a football player at Pitt. His presence has extended beyond the field to create meaningful connections with fans and contribute to the broader Pittsburgh community.

Fan Engagement and Support

Taylor quickly emerged as a fan favorite during his time with the Panthers. His imposing frame at offensive tackle combined with his approachable personality made him particularly popular at meet-and-greet events.

When Taylor suffered his season-ending injury in October 2023, the outpouring of support from Pitt fans was overwhelming. Social media campaigns with #GetWellBranson trended locally, showing the deep connection between the player and the fanbase.

The team’s performance statistics notably shifted after Taylor’s absence:

Stat	With Taylor	Without Taylor
Points/Game	29.3	21.4
Team Record	6-0	3-3
Sacks Allowed	1.2/game	2.8/game

Contribution Beyond the Field

Taylor’s community involvement has been exemplary during his time at Pitt. He regularly participates in the team’s hospital visits, reading programs at local elementary schools, and food drives throughout Pittsburgh’s neighborhoods.

His recovery journey has also provided inspiration. Taylor has spoken to youth groups about perseverance and mental toughness while recovering from his injury.

As a team captain, Taylor established a mentorship program for younger offensive linemen, demonstrating leadership qualities that NFL scouts have noted. His work with the athletic department’s community outreach program has strengthened Pitt’s ties with local businesses and schools.

The Role of the OT in Modern Football

The offensive tackle position has evolved dramatically in recent years, requiring a unique blend of size, agility and technical prowess. Today’s OTs must protect increasingly mobile quarterbacks while adapting to complex defensive schemes.

Shifting Schemes and Techniques

Modern offensive tackles face challenges that weren’t present even a decade ago. With defensive coordinators deploying exotic blitz packages and versatile edge rushers, OTs must master multiple blocking techniques.

A premium tackle like Branson Taylor exemplifies this evolution. His footwork in pass protection creates the solid foundation needed against speed rushers.

The position now demands quick processing skills. OTs must identify defensive fronts pre-snap and adjust technique accordingly—sometimes in milliseconds.

Key Technique Changes in the Last Decade:

• More emphasis on “kick-slide” technique for mobile QBs
• Increased use of “jump sets” against elite edge rushers
• Greater focus on hand placement against diverse rush moves
• Adaptive stances based on down and distance

The Value of Versatility

NFL scouts now prize tackles who can play multiple positions along the line. This versatility has become essential in an era of limited roster spots and rotating defensive fronts.

Taylor demonstrated this adaptability at Pitt, making eight starts at left tackle after opening with three at right tackle in 2023. This flexibility raises his draft stock considerably.

The modern OT must also seamlessly transition between run and pass blocking schemes. Zone blocking requires different footwork than gap schemes, and tackles who master both become invaluable.

NFL Draft Considerations for OTs:

Attribute	Importance	Why It Matters
Arm Length	Very High	Creates leverage against edge rushers
Lateral Agility	High	Essential for pass protection
Scheme Versatility	Medium-High	Allows for multiple offensive systems
Injury History	High	Position demands durability

Teams increasingly value tackles who can anchor an offensive line for years, making this position consistently among the highest drafted in the first round.

Media Coverage and Public Perception

Branson Taylor’s journey from Elyria Catholic to Pitt and now to NFL prospect has garnered significant attention from local and national media outlets. His recovery from injury and draft potential have become focal points in recent coverage.

Press Highlights

Taylor’s injury recovery has dominated recent media narratives. The Elyria Catholic graduate has been quite open about his recovery process, telling reporters he’s “almost 100 percent” after a season-ending injury that required surgery with a 4-6 month recovery time.

His appearance at the NFL Combine generated substantial press, where he discussed his Pitt career and position flexibility. Media outlets have consistently highlighted his technical skills and versatility on the offensive line.

Local Pittsburgh media gave significant coverage to his NFL Draft declaration, which he announced via social media as a redshirt senior.

Social Media Presence

Taylor maintains a modest but growing social media footprint, with his draft declaration post generating substantial engagement from fans and scouts alike. His recovery journey has been well-documented across platforms.

The Pitt football program has featured Taylor prominently in their content, including media availability sessions where he discusses team preparation and personal development.

His participation in the “Pitt Moms” series, featuring his mother Heather Roule, revealed a more personal side that resonated with fans and boosted his public profile beyond just on-field performance.

NFL Draft Projection:

Metric	Ranking
Overall Draft Position	Mid 3rd-4th Round
OT Position Ranking	8-12 Range
Strength Score	Above Average
Injury Concern	Moderate (Improving)

Comparative Analysis Against Peers

Branson Taylor stands out among offensive tackles in the ACC with his imposing 6’7″ frame and technical skills. His performance metrics against elite defensive lines and in critical game situations reveal both his strengths and areas for development as he progresses toward NFL consideration.

Ranking Within ACC

Taylor has established himself as one of the top offensive tackles in the ACC, though injuries have impacted his overall standing. When healthy, his impact is undeniable – Pitt started 6-0 with Taylor in the lineup last season, averaging 29.3 points per game before his injury derailed momentum.

Among ACC tackles, Taylor’s pass protection efficiency ranks in the upper quartile. His conditioning work to handle Pitt’s new offensive system shows commitment that NFL scouts value.

ACC Offensive Tackle Rankings (2024-25 Season)

Player	School	Pass Block Win %	Run Block Grade	NFL Draft Projection
Branson Taylor	Pittsburgh	91.3%	B+	Mid-Round (4-5)
Player X	Clemson	93.2%	A-	2nd Round
Player Y	Miami	89.7%	B	3rd-4th Round

Taylor’s technical footwork and length project well to the next level, though his injury history raises some concerns.

Match-ups Versus Boston College

Taylor’s performances against Boston College have showcased his development over multiple seasons. In their most recent matchup, he faced an aggressive Eagles defensive front and allowed zero sacks while helping establish Pitt’s ground game.

What makes Taylor particularly effective against BC is his ability to handle their diverse pass rush packages. He regularly works with defensive teammates after practice to improve his technique against various moves, preparation that pays dividends against complex schemes like Boston College’s.

His length and improved hand placement have neutralized BC’s edge rushers effectively. Even when facing stunts and blitzes, Taylor has demonstrated good awareness and communication along the line.

Outlook for Pittsburgh in Upcoming Season

The Pittsburgh Panthers are looking to build on their momentum from last season. They showed what they’re capable of at full strength with a solid 6-0 start when Branson Taylor was in the lineup.

The Panthers averaged an impressive 29.3 points in four games against ACC and Big 12 opponents with Taylor protecting the quarterback. This production demonstrates how crucial offensive line play is to their success.

Taylor is now pursuing his NFL dreams as one of four Panthers invited to the 2025 NFL Combine. The team must find a way to replace his production on the offensive line.

Key Stats from 2024 with Taylor Starting:

Stat	With Taylor	Without Taylor
Record	6-0	3-4
Points Per Game	29.3	21.5
Sacks Allowed	1.2	2.8

The Panthers’ offensive line depth will be tested in 2025. Several young linemen will need to step up. They’ve also been targeting some promising recruits from New Jersey and elsewhere.

Pittsburgh’s success this coming season will likely hinge on two factors. They need to see how well they can replace Taylor’s protection skills and whether their defensive front can create enough pressure to compensate during the rebuilding phase.

The coaching staff has emphasized versatility in their offensive line recruits. They’re seeking players who, like Taylor, demonstrate position flexibility. This quality proved invaluable during last season’s injuries.