Bears punter Tory Taylor needs strong 2026 season to justify draft pick
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 1, 2026, 2:00 PM
Last updated Jun 1, 2026
As June begins, the Chicago Bears are focusing on punter Tory Taylor, who needs a strong 2026 season. Drafted in the fourth round in 2024, Taylor has underperformed since joining the NFL, ranking poorly in key punting statistics last season. Criticism has surrounded his inability to pin opponents effectively and his high touchback percentage. With two years remaining on his rookie deal, Taylor must improve to validate the Bears' investment and support a struggling defense that may need better field position.
- •Tory Taylor ranks 13th in yards per punt and 25th in net yards per punt.
- •He struggles with a high touchback percentage and low inside-the-20 success.
- •Taylor has two years left on his rookie contract.
- •His performance is crucial for the Bears' defense in 2026.
- 2:00 PMYahoo Sports — Ten Chicago Bears with the most to prove in 2026: 10. Tory Taylor
"We begin our annual list of 10 Chicago Bears with the most to prove with their punter, Tory Taylor.
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