Stats-wise, Phil Taylor barely registered a blip during his three years as a walk-on receiver at TCU: one career reception.
But for pure competitiveness, personal strength and concern for others — for qualities that show a person's character beyond the numbers — few former Frogs are held in higher regard.
“He definitely set the precedent on how to conduct yourself, not only as a walk-on but as a TCU player in general,” said former TCU receiver Deante' Gray.
Three years after he graduated, Taylor hasn't lost his underdog mentality. He needs it as much as ever against the stage 4 stomach cancer for which he'll undergo a major procedure on Tuesday.