Storm Safeties Jason Taylor & Jaylen Mahoney Sign NFL Deals

It’s been a wild week for the Orlando Storm. They have seen three of their safeties sign NFL contracts over the past 24 hours. Josh Minkins was acquired by the Cardinals. Meanwhile, Jason Taylor II was signed by the Detroit Lions, and Jaylen Mahoney inked a deal with the Philadelphia Eagles.

S Jason Taylor II | Detroit Lions

Taylor had an interesting story with Orlando this past UFL season. He was one of the higher-regarded safeties brought in by Anthony Becht – but found himself on the outside looking in once camp cuts were made.

However, due to injuries, Taylor was brought back. He ended up starting in the final five games of the year, including a playoff loss against DC. Jason totaled 21 tackles and four defensive stops across that span.

Jason is a former seventh round draft pick with the Los Angeles Rams (2023). He made eight appearances as a rookie, with five tackles to his name. Taylor has since bounced around on a couple of practice squads prior to making his way to spring football.

Now, Taylor will get a chance late in the preseason with Detroit. The Lions have loaded up on former spring talent in the secondary. They already roster Nick Whiteside, Ekow Boye-Doe, and Ryan Cooper.

S Jaylen Mahoney | Philadelphia Eagles

Interestingly enough, it was Jaylen Mahoney’s injury that brought Taylor back to Orlando’s roster. Jaylen entered the season as the team’s starter at free safety, playing in six games. He was injured late in their loss to Birmingham in week six, and placed on IR.

Jaylen had a productive season prior to injury. He racked up 30 tackles, five defensive stops, and a pair of pass breakups. Mahoney posted a 90.0 Defensive Grade in their week four win over the Stallions.

Jaylen has some previous NFL experience, as an UDFA with the 49ers. He was active for three games with the team in 2024, primarily playing on special teams. Mahoney also has experience with the New York Jets.

Collegiately, Jaylen Mahoney played at Vanderbilt for four seasons. He compiled 247 tackles, 18 pass breakups, and 4 interceptions across that tenure.

These signings are just another testament to what the UFL platform stands for: giving athletes another chance to chase their dreams. You can stay up to date with all UFL to NFL movement with our official tracker.

What are your thoughts on Jaylen Mahoney and Jason Taylor II signing NFL deals? Which Storm player should be next? Let us know down in the comments below, or join the conversation on Discord!