Born on May 28, 1948, in Perth Amboy, New Jersey, Bruce Taylor made an immediate impact on the football field upon arriving at Boston University. Playing cornerback for the Terriers from 1967 to 1969, Taylor quickly established himself as a game-changing talent on both defense and special teams.
**College Career
Taylor's 1969 season at Boston University was nothing short of spectacular. As a defensive back and punt returner, he was instrumental in the Terriers' impressive 9-1 campaign. His electrifying punt return abilities were a constant threat, as he scored four touchdowns on returns of 100, 72, 64, and 56 yards. In total, Taylor reached the end zone six times and led his team in scoring with 36 points. He showcased his dominance in the return game by averaging an astounding 20.3 yards per punt return, amassing 527 yards on 26 returns. Taylor's exceptional collegiate performance earned him recognition as one of the nation's top players and ultimately led to his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1997.
**Road to the Pro Game
Taylor's exceptional athletic prowess extended beyond the gridiron. He was also drafted by Major League Baseball's Baltimore Orioles, a testament to his all-around athletic talent. However, Taylor chose to pursue a career in professional football and was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers.
**Football Legacy
Bruce Taylor enjoyed a successful eight-season career in the NFL with the San Francisco 49ers. His transition from a standout college player to a professional contributor was seamless. In his rookie season of 1970, Taylor's impact was immediately recognized as he was named Rookie of the Year by both The Sporting News and United Press International. This rare double honor underscored his exceptional talent and immediate contribution to the 49ers' defense. While specific career statistics might vary across sources, his Rookie of the Year awards firmly establish his significant early impact in the NFL. Taylor's college exploits as a dynamic scorer and his subsequent professional recognition highlight a career defined by exceptional athleticism and playmaking ability on both the collegiate and professional levels.
**Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats:
✦ College Football Hall of Fame Inductee (1997)
✦ The Sporting News NFL Rookie of the Year (1970)
UPI NFL Rookie of the Year (1970)
✦ Boston University Records: Multiple punt return records, including touchdowns and average.
✦ College: 1969: 26 punt returns, 527 yards (20.3 avg.), 4 touchdowns.
✦ College: 1969: 6 total touchdowns, 36 points (led team in scoring).
✦ MLB Draft Selection (Baltimore Orioles)
