2023 NFL Free Agency: Former Gamecock Defensive Lineman Gets New Deal
By Kevin Miller
The 2023 league year has not officially begun yet, but NFL Free Agency is already heating up as teams are reaching agreements with free agents. None of the deals can become official until March 15th, but negotiations are solidly underway. The former Gamecocks in the NFL are no exception.
Defensive tackle Taylor Stallworth has agreed to sign a $1.08 Million deal to remain a Houston Texan. Stallworth is a coveted archetype as inexpensive run-stopping tackles are not often available on the open market. After playing with the Gamecocks from 2014 to 2017, he has spent time with the Saints, Colts, Chiefs, and Texans. Even after this one-year contract is up, Stallworth will likely have several opportunities to continue his playing career.
As a Gamecock, Stallworth was a multi-year starter. As a block-eating defensive tackle, he didn’t put up impressive numbers, but Stallworth was very important to the South Carolina defense during his time in Columbia. Linebackers Skai Moore, TJ Brunson, and Bryson Allen-Williams owed many of their tackles to the big guys up front like Stallworth. Big #90’s 31 starts at the defensive tackle spot are among the highest-ever for the position in garnet and black.
In the NFL, Stallworth has usually been deployed as a reserve and situational defensive tackle who thrives in defending against short-yardage opportunities.
While Stallworth’s role has always been primarily as a tackle who occupies gaps and allows other defenders to make plays, he has shown in the past the ability to be a playmaker himself if the opportunity arose. Below is an example of what can happen if Stallworth goes unblocked.
Stallworth will likely play behind big defensive tackle Maliek Collins for the Texans and their new Head Coach DeMeco Ryans. It is unclear whether Ryans or new Defensive Coordinator Matt Burke will handle defensive play-calling duties or if the decision will affect Stallworth in any way.