Chester Taylor is a former American football running back who played in the National Football League (NFL) for nine seasons. He was born on September 22, 1979, in River Rouge, Michigan, and attended Western Michigan University, where he played college football.
Taylor was selected by the Baltimore Ravens in the sixth round of the 2002 NFL Draft. He spent four seasons with the Ravens, serving as a backup to Jamal Lewis for the first three seasons before becoming the starting running back in 2005. In his first year as a starter, Taylor rushed for 1,216 yards and six touchdowns, earning him a Pro Bowl selection.
After the 2005 season, Taylor became a free agent and signed with the Minnesota Vikings. He spent three seasons with the Vikings, rushing for over 1,000 yards in each of his first two seasons with the team. In 2008, he was named the Vikings' Most Valuable Player after rushing for 1,202 yards and six touchdowns.
In 2010, Taylor signed with the Chicago Bears as a backup to Matt Forte. He played in 16 games for the Bears, rushing for 267 yards and three touchdowns. After the season, he was released by the Bears and signed with the Arizona Cardinals, where he played in six games before being released.
Taylor retired from the NFL in 2012, finishing his career with 7,427 rushing yards and 44 touchdowns. He also caught 290 passes for 2,384 yards and eight touchdowns.
Throughout his career, Taylor was known for his versatility as a running back. He was a strong runner between the tackles, but also had the speed and agility to make plays in the open field. He was also a reliable receiver out of the backfield, with good hands and the ability to make plays after the catch.
Off the field, Taylor was known for his work in the community. He established the Chester Taylor Foundation, which provides scholarships and other support to underprivileged youth in his hometown of River Rouge, Michigan.
Overall, Chester Taylor had a successful career in the NFL, earning Pro Bowl honors and establishing himself as a reliable and versatile running back. He is remembered not only for his on-field accomplishments, but also for his contributions to his community.
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