WVU Tight End Kole Taylor Ready to Make Impact After Offseason Surgery

West Virginia tight end Kole Taylor is entering the 2024 season with high expectations after undergoing offseason surgery on his shoulder. Taylor, who had a labrum repair, spoke with the media last week during preseason camp and is confident that the procedure will allow him to play at a higher level without the restrictions he experienced last year.

"Yeah, it was something with my shoulder," Taylor said. "I got a labrum repair, something I dealt with throughout the season. I had to wear that brace, and I felt like the brace was kind of restricting me a little bit within the catching game. So, I thought it was a good time to get the repair."

Missing spring practice due to the surgery was challenging for Taylor, but he used the time to focus on mental reps and improving his lower body strength. "Sitting on the sidelines is never fun; I wanted to be out there competing with all the guys," Taylor explained. "But I got a lot of mental reps and focused on lower body strength. I did a lot of flexibility and strength work, which I used as a stepping stone."

Heading into his final season with the Mountaineers, Taylor feels stronger and more confident, especially without the brace that he believes limited his play last season.

"Exactly, I feel 100%," Taylor said. "Going into this season, I feel strong, especially with my shoulder. I feel good moving forward."

Taylor is coming off a solid first season at West Virginia but is aiming for more in 2024. He has set personal goals, including being in the running for the John Mackey Award, given to the nation's top tight end, and achieving 50-plus catches.

"Last season was a good season, but it was my first season here and the first with Garrett and Nico as quarterbacks," Taylor said. "Another offseason and camp with them will be big for me. Personally, the John Mackey Award, which is the best tight end in the nation, is something I think about."

Taylor also mentioned the importance of lower body strength in his role as a tight end, particularly in the run game. "As a tight end, you’ve got to be involved in the run game," he noted. "The more lower body strength I have, the lower I can play, and the more involved I can be in the run game. Being a tall guy, it’s usually a challenge to play low, so that’s been a huge focus for me this offseason."

Despite the minor setbacks, Taylor is eager to hit the field and contribute to a successful season for the Mountaineers. With the Big 12 Championship as the team's primary goal, Taylor is determined to elevate his play and help lead the offense, particularly in the red zone, an area of emphasis during fall camp.

"For me, it’s about knowing my role and understanding where I fit within the offense," Taylor said. "It’s about getting more involved and being able to make contested catches." With a healthier shoulder and a stronger connection with quarterback Garrett Greene, Kole Taylor is poised to be a key contributor for West Virginia this season.

As the season approaches, Kole Taylor's blend of physical readiness and mental preparation sets the stage for a standout year. With his shoulder fully healed and an offseason dedicated to honing his strengths, Taylor is not just ready to participate but to dominate. The Mountaineers will rely on his experience and determination, particularly in the red zone, as they aim for a Big 12 Championship. If Taylor achieves his goals, he could be a crucial factor in West Virginia's success and potentially see his name among the nation's elite tight ends by season's end.