Taylor Burton's journey back home.

For Memphis defensive lineman Taylor Burton, the road to Division I football wasn’t paved with five-star ratings or viral highlight reels. It was built on grit, resilience, and an unshakable belief in the process.A product of Whitehaven High School under the guidance of veteran coach Rodney Saulsberry, Burton’s football journey began with uncertainty. The COVID-19 pandemic wiped out his sophomore season, stalling early development and exposure. But when he returned to the field as a junior, he made up for lost time—playing both sides of the ball and quickly discovering where his heart was.“I just loved defense,” Burton said. “There’s something about being the one to stop the play, to set the tone.”

Active shot of Taylor Burton (Photo Credit : Memphis Football)

Despite a strong senior year that earned him All-State honors, Burton’s recruitment started slow. He hit the camp circuit hard, eventually landing his first offer from Southeast Missouri. From there, interest grew, with East Tennessee State, Tennessee State, UT Martin, and others joining the mix. Burton ultimately chose UT Martin, where he found a strong coaching staff and an opportunity to contribute early. Though he began as a second-teamer, his work ethic and impact on the field earned him a starting spot. But just as things were beginning to click, adversity struck again—a minor tear sidelined him, and his position coach left for the University of Miami.

Photo Credits: Memphis Football

“It was tough,” Burton admitted. “You build trust with a coach, and then he’s gone. Then you’re hurt. It felt like everything hit at once.”

no special algorithm boost Burton entered the transfer portal, initially leaning toward Florida Atlantic. But as fate would have it, Coach Spence—who had recruited him heavily—took a job at the University of New Mexico. That opened the door for Memphis head coach Ryan Silverfield to make his move. Now back in his hometown, Burton is thriving under defensive line coach Kyle Cauthen.“Coach Cauthen is a cool dude,” Burton said. “Very calm, very down to earth. Some coaches yell so much you miss the message. Coach Cauthen’s demeanor helps me focus.”Off the field, Burton has committed himself to development. Under the guidance of strength coach Coach Manual, he’s spent the offseason building strength, speed, and agility with a singular focus: becoming as strong and durable as possible.“I’m locked in on durability and strength,” he said. “I want to be the guy who’s always available, always dependable.”

Photo Credits : Memphis Football

As the 2025 season approaches, Burton is poised to be a key piece of the Tigers’ defensive front. His journey—from COVID setbacks to college transfers—has shaped him into a player who understands the value of patience and perseverance.

“I owe a lot to Coach Saulsberry and everyone who believed in me,” Burton said. “Now it’s about proving them right—and showing Memphis what I can do.”