Kavein Taylor: Humboldt’s Dual-Threat Leader on the Rise

Taylor has accounted for 1,722 passing yards (21 passing TD's) 402 yards rushing ( 5 rushing TD's) Photo Credit - Vikings on Demand

Humboldt, TN — Standing at 5’11” and 175 pounds, Humboldt High School’s Class of 2026 quarterback Kavein Taylor has quietly emerged as one of West Tennessee’s most dynamic young playmakers.

Taylor’s football journey began back in third grade in a small pee wee league in Rutherford, Tennessee, inspired by his father, Derick Taylor, who encouraged him to chase the game he loved. That early spark has since evolved into a competitive fire that fuels him every Friday night under the lights.

Taylor came onto our radar at Jerry Reese Stadium in Tiptonville, TN, where he put on a performance to remember — completing 20 of 28 passes for 548 yards, adding 46 rushing yards on 4 carries, and accounting for 6 total touchdowns.

“The game plan going into last week was to be very aggressive offensively and defensively,” Taylor said after the win.

Although Taylor has thrived behind center, he revealed that quarterback isn’t his natural position — his heart lies at wide receiver.

“My primary position is actually WR,” Taylor shared. “But my coach couldn’t get me the ball there, so I decided to play QB. I just wanted to help my team.”

When asked who his game most resembles, Taylor didn’t hesitate to name Jayden Daniels, the LSU Heisman winner known for his explosive dual-threat ability.

Taylor credits much of his development to Coach Williams, who he describes as an offensive-minded, aggressive leader with a knack for adjusting schemes to his players’ strengths.

“Coach Williams loves getting his players involved,” Taylor said. “He’s aggressive, but he knows how to make changes and implement new game plans each week.”

Playing 1A football has had its share of challenges, Taylor admits, but he sees it as an opportunity to sharpen his skills and leadership.

“It has its ups and downs,” he said, “but it’s been a good experience.”

Recruiting has been slow to pick up, though Taylor has drawn early attention from Bethel University and has been in contact with Defensive Backs Coach Jaylen Montague.

When asked what message he had for college coaches who haven’t yet discovered him, Taylor didn’t mince words:

“Be prepared.”