Jackson Taylor - Boise State's Future Field General
Article By Nick Wade
The New PAC-12
As Boise State prepares to enter a bold new chapter in its storied football history with a move to the new PAC-12 Conference in 2026, the pressure to maintain the program’s competitive edge has never been greater. With this shift comes elevated national exposure, deeper competition, and higher stakes—making the recruitment of top-tier quarterbacks more crucial than ever. At the heart of that future lies the challenge of eventually succeeding current standout Maddux “Maddog” Madsen, whose leadership and dynamic play have defined the Broncos’ offense in recent seasons. The program’s ability to continue its legacy of excellence depends on young talent ready to rise to the moment—and few embody that potential more than Class of 2026 quarterback commit Jackson Taylor.
From Playground Battles to the Blue Turf:
Meet Jackson Taylor
Jackson Taylor’s football story doesn’t begin with a snap under the Friday night lights or an official recruiting visit—it begins on the grounds of Oak Hills Elementary School. Long before he became a Division I quarterback commit, Taylor found himself immersed in ultra-competitive recess games, watching football with his dad, and dreaming of making big plays. That early exposure led him to flag football at age 7, and eventually, with a little persuasion from his dad and approval from his mom, Jackson took his first tackle football snaps in seventh grade.
Role Models and Core Values
For Jackson, football was never just about stats and highlights—it was about character. His inspiration? None other than Marcus Mariota. ‘He represented everything a kid should dream to become,’ Taylor says. Mariota’s humility, discipline, and values left a deep impression. Jackson’s commitment to living with integrity, putting others first, and focusing on long-term growth mirrors his hero’s off-the-field demeanor as much as his on-field excellence.
Journey Through The Ranks
From his first snap for the Agoura Chargers to transferring and thriving at Thousand Oaks High School, Taylor’s football path has been built on steady progress and purpose. He began as a receiver hopeful before his father’s vision shifted him toward quarterback. His first true sense of potential came not from a singular play, but from ‘a-ha’ moments of realization and growth each year—a mature outlook for a young athlete.
A Quarterback with Athleticism and IQ
Jackson defines his playstyle as ‘pro-style with pleasantly surprising athleticism.’ With a twitchy, quick release and elite football IQ honed by top-tier coaches, Taylor feels primed to fit Boise State’s offense seamlessly. He’s confident that his processing ability, combined with physical development, puts him in a prime position to thrive in a system that mirrors his current one.
More Than Just a Football Player
A true multi-sport athlete, Taylor started with basketball, which he credits for developing his athletic foundation. Later, track sharpened his speed and endurance. These sports didn’t just develop his body—they introduced him to coaches and mentors who helped shape the man he’s becoming.
Why Boise? A Commitment Deeper Than Football
So why Boise State? ‘The people,’ Jackson says without hesitation. From head coach Spencer Danielson to offensive coordinator Coach Potter, the staff’s values-driven approach stood out. ‘They’re intentional every day,’ he reflects. ‘It’s bigger than football.’ From the first visit to the surprising offer—what Taylor calls ‘an answered prayer’—to the joy-filled commitment, every step aligned with his family’s vision and faith.
Faith, Family, and Future
Even off the field, Boise feels like home. Jackson will minor in music and play violin in the university’s orchestra, a rare duality for a Division I athlete. It’s another answered prayer—academic and athletic schedules aligned, allowing him to pursue both passions fully.
Goals That Transcend the Game
When Jackson steps onto campus, his goals aren’t just about throwing touchdowns. He’s focused on growing mentally, physically, and spiritually. Learning the offense and diving into the Bronco culture top his list. ‘Everything else starts with that,’ he says. That mindset—grounded in humility and hard work—is a glimpse into the kind of leader Boise State is getting.
Training, Grit, and Leadership
Offseason for Taylor is anything but quiet—he’s balancing strength training, speed work, QB-specific brain training, and summer school. And while he loves the grind, he also knows the value of rest and mental clarity. As a quarterback, Jackson believes leadership begins with example and continues with resilience: ‘A team can rally behind someone who’s unshakable—physically and mentally.’
Rapid Fire with Jackson Taylor
Favorite NFL team and QB? Tennessee Titans, Cam Ward
Go-to pump-up song? ‘Born in the USA’ by Bruce Springsteen or ‘I’ll Fly Away’ by Alan Jackson
Dream touchdown pass? To Titans legend Derrick Mason
Jackson Taylor isn’t your average quarterback recruit. With a deep-rooted love for the game, a head full of knowledge, a heart grounded in faith, and a violin case in one hand and a football in the other, he represents the holistic approach Boise State has long cherished. And as the Class of 2026 prepares to usher in a new era on the Blue Turf, it’s clear—Taylor is built to lead it.
Blue Turf Talk With Jackson Taylor Coming Soon.