JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Jacksonville Jaguars great Fred Taylor said he first met former Jaguars head coach Tom Coughlin in 1998 at the Florida Gators Pro Day. Taylor said his first encounter with the coach was a memorable one because Coughlin told him before the workout, "I am going to put you to the test, I am going to run your tongue out of your mouth".
Taylor, who was one of the best running backs in the country said at the time he did not know Coughlin and the Jaguars were interested in him at running back. But Taylor no doubt impressed Coughlin, he selected Taylor 9th overall in the 1998 NFL Draft.
Taylor admitted, during his rookie season with the Jaguars, there were times him and Coughlin did not see eye to eye.
"He wanted me to be a big bruiser type running back, tough, downhill one cut and go. And I wanted to be a slasher, somebody that's quick, shifty, could take it the distance," said Taylor.
Fred added, when he finally learned to run the way coach Coughlin wanted him to, he ended up rushing for 1,223 yards, 14 rushing touchdowns and 3 receiving touchdowns his rookie season. Taylor was the first 1,000-yard rusher in the franchise's history.
"He wanted to mold you into this tough, disciplined, respectful person. He wanted you to earn respect," said Taylor.
Taylor said Coughlin was relentless but a master teacher, who helped him put together an NFL career that many believe will one day land Taylor in the pro football hall of fame.
"It really shows how amazing he was as a coach. He built the team the way he visualized. I learned the true meaning of integrity. I learned what accountability looks like because of coach Coughlin. I learned to be a leader. As a father I don't think I'd be the type of father I am without having experienced coach Coughlin," Taylor added.
The Jaguars will induct Tom Coughlin into the Pride of the Jaguars Sunday, Oct. 6 at 1 p.m. when they host the Indianapolis Colts.