Bruce Taylor is a fifth year senior from Virginia Tech. He stands 6’2″ and weighs 244 pounds. He was Honorable Mention All ACC in the 2011 & 2012 seasons. He played and started all 11 Games in 2012 (789 Total Plays!). He was also a two Time Player of the Year in High School(Myrtle Beach S.C.) for his coach, Scott Early.
He is considered a “prototype” at strongside or as an inside Linebacker, but could move to the outside in certain formations. Bruce was born on New Years Eve 1989, and actively volunteers with the Special Olympics. In High School he was ranked 7th overall in the State of South Carolina, and 25th Nationally as a senior. Taylor has already earned his degree (B.S.) in Human Development, graduating this past December. Pro Player Insiders spoke with Bruce at after practice for the NFLPA Bowl game.
Name: Bruce Taylor
Position: Linebacker
College: Virginia Tech
Team: National Team
PPI: What are some things you will take away from this NFLPA Bowl experience?
Bruce Taylor (BT): The great knowledge! There’s so much to soak up from this great coaching staff.
PPI: How is the NFLPA bowl going to help you in your preparation from college to pro?
BT: It’ll help me learn a new scheme and take me out of the comfort zone I’ve been in for the last 5 years.
PPI: What do you think will be the hardest transition going from college ball to the league?
BT: I think having to study up on a new scheme will be a major transition… and having to learn it quickly instead of being able to learn it while red shirting.
PPI: What differentiates you from the other NFL prospects?
BT: I try to learn everything the first time. With me, it’s not like the other guys where you have to keep telling them. Tell me once, and I’m gonna learn it… It’ll stick.
PPI: How are you preparing for the combine?
BT: I’m practicing in New Jersey. Which is really cold… But I chose it over Miami. Less distractions, I can focus.
PPI: What has the scouting process been like so far?
BT: It’s been great, I’m just soaking up and learning as much as possible.
PPI: Do you know any of the other players on either team? have you played against them?
BT: I’m not too familiar since it’s just our first day but I obviously know the once we played against and there are a couple guys I started out with that play for other teams who are here.
PPI: Has anyone in your life helped mentor you in your football career?
BT: My high school coach. He really helped me to become a man… I developed as a player and a person because of him.
PPI: How does knowing that you could be on an NFL team next season change the way you will watch the playoffs and super bowl?
BT: It doesn’t, really… I’ve always watched and really analyzed my position. I compare their movements to my own… and I make little mental notes and stuff.
PPI: Who are you rooting for in the playoffs?
BT: Definitely the Falcons… I’m from Georgia and come from a big family of Falcons fans.
PPI: What player in the league now do you follow or look at as a model player?
BT: It’s gotta be Ray Lewis. Not just his ability, but it’s his leadership qualities. He makes other people better and he plays with great intensity.
PPI: How was your first practice under coach Vermeil?
BT: Coach Vermeil is a lot of fun. It’s cool to see someone on TV then actually be in his presence and be able to learn from him. He’s won Superbowls… It’s a different scheme but there are a few similarities. I’ll get better, especially once I watch some film. I’m a really big film guy… I like to be able to watch what I did wrong and what needs to be worked on.
PPI: Which one of the coaches are you looking forward to working with the most?
BT: Kurt Gouveia… I’ve hung out with his son for like 5 years, he goes to VT… he’s a good resource and a nice guy.
PPI: What’s been your favorite part about the events NFLPA has put on for you guys?
BT: I haven’t experienced much yet, it’s just the first day but I’m looking forward to everything. I’m excited for this opportunity to just take advantage and take as much out of it as I can. And just being in California… I love it here!
