Trae Taylor, a standout quarterback from Carmel Catholic High School in Mundelein, Illinois, has rapidly ascended the ranks of high school football, capturing the attention of top-tier college programs nationwide.
Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 186 pounds, Taylor’s impressive physical attributes are complemented by his on-field prowess, making him a coveted recruit for the class of 2027.
Taylor’s football journey began at an exceptionally young age. He started playing flag football at just three years old and transitioned to tackle football by the age of five. His father, a former first-team All-American running back at Eastern Illinois, played a significant role in nurturing his early passion for the game.
The recruiting process for Taylor commenced unusually early. In seventh grade, he received his first scholarship offer from the University of Maryland, setting the stage for a flurry of interest from other institutions. By the time he entered high school, Taylor had already secured offers from prominent programs, including Michigan, UNLV, Marshall, and Central Michigan.
As of early 2025, Taylor’s list of scholarship offers has expanded to over 30 schools. Notable among these are powerhouse programs such as Georgia, Texas A&M, Ohio State, Miami, Tennessee, Colorado, Oklahoma, South Carolina, and LSU. The University of Georgia’s offer, in particular, left a significant impression on Taylor. He expressed his astonishment, stating, “I’m still in shock to be honest. It’s freaking Georgia.”
In November 2024, Taylor narrowed his list to a “Top 12,” which included Michigan, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Ohio State, South Carolina, Ole Miss, NC State, Iowa, West Virginia, Illinois, LSU, and Tennessee. He has indicated a desire to commit by May 2025, aiming to focus on training and assisting in recruiting efforts for his chosen program during the subsequent camp season. However, he remains open to adjusting this timeline to ensure he makes a fully informed decision.
Taylor’s relationship with fellow quarterback Bryce Underwood, Michigan’s top signee for the 2025 class, adds an intriguing dynamic to his recruitment. Despite their camaraderie, Taylor’s competitive spirit shines through. He remarked, “If I come to Michigan, I’m coming to take his job. And crazy thing is Bryce will help me to develop to push him.”
Off the field, Taylor maintains a balanced lifestyle. He enjoys collecting football cards and values spending quality time with friends. His parents play a crucial role in ensuring he has regular rest periods, during which he refrains from any football-related activities, underscoring the importance of mental and physical well-being in his routine.
As the recruitment process intensifies, Taylor’s blend of talent, work ethic, and grounded personality continues to make him a standout prospect. His journey is closely watched by college football enthusiasts, eager to see where this promising quarterback will ultimately commit.
