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Rashaud “Ray” Taylor Class of 2027 Position: Defensive Back School: Bishop Moore Catholic – Orlando, FL Height: 6'0" Weight: 180 lbs GPA: 3.0 Rashaud “Ray” Taylor is a 2027 defensive back whose game is built on instinct, discipline, and a quiet competitive edge. Ray comes from a strong football bloodline, including his cousin Merrill “Bud” Noel, the former Wake Forest cornerback who earned ACC Defensive Rookie of the Year honors in 2011 and later signed with the Buffalo Bills. Ray and Bud are years apart, but discovering that connection gave Ray a deeper understanding of the standard set within his own family. That legacy came full circle when Ray attended Wake Forest’s Junior Day, stepping onto the same field his cousin once did — not because he chased the connection, but because his path naturally led him there. Ray also has additional cousins who played at the NFL level, reinforcing the athletic foundation in his family. But Ray is carving his own lane — defined by preparation, discipline, and a commitment to letting his work speak for itself. Competing since age six, Ray has developed a reputation for reading plays early, staying disciplined in coverage, and bringing a calm, confident presence to the secondary. Coaches describe him as focused, coachable, and relentless in his pursuit of growth. He treats football as a privilege earned through sacrifice — prioritizing nutrition, recovery, and film study to stay sharp mentally and physically. Ray plans to pursue a degree in communications, sports medicine, or business management as he continues exploring his academic interests, and he aims to continue the family tradition of excellence on and off the field. “No hype. Just work.”