Taylor Jr. cherishes 49ers opportunity after challenging NFL journey

SANTA CLARA — Patrick Taylor Jr. was all set up for an eye-popping final season of college and a likely draft-day party. But that blew up when Taylor sustained a Lisfranc injury in Memphis' 2019 season opener against Ole Miss. His senior season was spoiled, he underwent a series of surgeries, his draft status sunk and he was fortunate to get an opportunity to work his way up in the NFL as an undrafted free agent. Taylor, now a fourth-year professional, is in line to see significant playing time and, perhaps, make the first start of his NFL career on Sunday for the 49ers against the Miami Dolphins. "It's really exciting, especially going through everything I've been through over the years and working as hard as I have and getting to this point," Taylor said. "I'm extremely excited for this opportunity." Taylor had a breakout junior season at Memphis, where he rushed for 1,122 yards and 16 touchdowns while averaging 5.6-yard per rushing attempt. Taylor originally signed with the Green Bay Packers following the 2020 NFL Draft. He sat out his entire rookie season due to his foot condition. The Packers waived him at the end of the following training camp. He quickly worked his way...