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Nick Saban reveals ‘biggest recruiting mistake’ of his career during 2025 NFL Draft
By Paul Harvey
Published:
Across his legendary coaching career, Nick Saban was known for his extensive track record of recruiting hits. That’s evidenced by the laundry list of names Saban developed into first-round draft picks from Alabama.
However, even the GOAT was not immune to mistakes and missteps during his coaching career. Even the best miss a star right in front of their faces, and Saban admitted the Crimson Tide missed one in former LSU tight end Mason Taylor.
Shortly after Taylor was selected by the New York Jets in the second round, Saban admitted Taylor was “the biggest recruiting mistake” his staff at Alabama ever made.
“This guy is the best tight end we had in camp,” said Saban.
While Taylor was not a slouch at the tight end position coming out of high school, the son of legendary NFL pass rusher Jason Taylor received just a 3-star prospect rating. Fortunately for the Tigers, that did not slow down his production. Once in Baton Rouge, all Taylor did was compile 129 catches for 1,308 yards and 6 touchdowns across 3 seasons as a star.
Now, Taylor will get his chance to build his NFL career with the Jets after an impressive career at LSU, and Saban’s ready to admit the TE is the one that got away from his career.
Paul Harvey lives in Atlanta and covers SEC football.
