Helix Standout Jamar Taylor Set for NFL Career

Jamar Taylor, a one-time Helix High School standout in football, had the Fox Sports Florida spotlight upon him this week because of his recent deal with the Miami Dolphins.

Taylor, 22, was picked in the second round of the NFL draft and last month signed a four-year contract with the team.

Taylor's former coach, Donnie Van Hook, told Fox Sports he is pleased with
Taylor's progress, but disappointed that he won't play with Reggie Bush, another graduate of Helix. Bush left the Dolphins to sign with the Detroit Lions.

"I have a Miami Dolphins helmet, and Reggie invited me to see them play against the 49ers," Van Hook said. "Reggie signed the helmet. So when Jamar comes out, I'm going to have Jamar sign it."

The story outlines Taylor's work ethic, which led him to seek out opportunities to practice with pros at the tender age of 14 before he excelled at Helix. The cornerback played college ball at Boise State.

But Van Hook, according to Fox Sports, also credits Taylor with being a commendable young man. He spoke of a holiday weekend visit from his former player, who was home while in his first year at Boise State.

"My mother-in-law was suffering from dementia, and Jamar sat down and talked to her for 15 minutes," Van Hook said. "I thought he came by to see me but he spent more time with her.

Taylor, the report said, is recovering from hernia surgery but should be ready for training camp.