Brief Introduction of Taysom Hill
Taysom Shawn Hill, born on August 23, 1990, is an American professional football utility player renowned for his exceptional versatility on the field. Currently playing for the New Orleans Saints in the National Football League (NFL), Hill has carved out a unique role that defies traditional positional labels. He has officially been designated as a tight end but has also extensively played as a quarterback, running back, wide receiver, fullback, and on special teams. This multifaceted capability has earned him the moniker “the Human Swiss Army Knife” from Saints’ media, making him one of the most distinctive and impactful players in the league.
Taysom Hill Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Taysom Shawn Hill |
| Date of Birth | August 23, 1990 |
| Age (as of August 23, 2025) | 35 years old |
| Birthplace | Pocatello, Idaho, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 6 ft 2 in (1.88 m) |
| Weight | 221 lb (100 kg) |
| Profession | Professional Football Player (NFL) |
| Position | Tight End / Utility Player |
| Team | New Orleans Saints |
| Spouse | Emily Nixon Hill (m. 2014) |
| Children | Beau Nixon Hill (son, b. August 2020), Bennett Hill (son, b. July 2021) |
| Education | Highland High School, Brigham Young University (BYU) |
| Net Worth (Estimated as of Feb 2025) | ~$62.2 million |
| Career Earnings (as of 2025) | $62,670,000 |
Early Life and Education of Taysom Hill
Taysom Hill was born and raised in Pocatello, Idaho, where his athletic prowess began to emerge early in his life. He attended Highland High School, where he was a multi-sport athlete, lettering in football, basketball, and track. During his senior year in 2008, Hill showcased his exceptional talent, throwing for 2,269 yards and 18 touchdowns while rushing for 1,491 yards and 24 touchdowns. His outstanding performance earned him significant accolades, including the All-Idaho Player of the Year, Idaho Gatorade High School Player of the Year, and First Team All-State selection. He also holds Highland High School’s single-season and career records for total offense.
Upon graduating from high school in 2009, Hill was a highly recruited prospect, receiving offers from numerous collegiate programs across the Western United States, including Stanford, Boise State, and Utah. He initially committed to Stanford, heavily recruited by then-head coach Jim Harbaugh. However, his path to college football took a unique turn when he embarked on a two-year mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS). Hill served his mission in Sydney, Australia, an experience he described as eye-opening, exposing him to diverse cultures and people.
After returning from his mission, Hill enrolled at Brigham Young University (BYU) in January 2012, choosing BYU because it allowed incoming freshmen to join the team earlier than Stanford. At BYU, he became a prominent quarterback, though his college career was marked by a series of season-ending injuries. Despite these setbacks, Hill displayed remarkable resilience and leadership. He made his college debut in 2012 and was named the Cougars’ full-time starter for the 2013 season. That year, he had a standout performance against Texas, rushing for 259 yards and three touchdowns in a 40-21 victory. He also recorded over 400 passing yards and 100 rushing yards in a single game against Houston, a feat achieved by only a handful of FBS quarterbacks.
Hill holds several BYU records, including career leader in quarterback rushing yards (2,815) and rushing touchdowns (32), ranking fifth overall in rushing yards for all positions at BYU. He earned a post-graduate scholarship as an NFF Scholar-Athlete and maintained a 3.45 GPA as a finance major, graduating in May 2016. He later pursued an MBA. In 2016, his senior year, he changed his jersey number from 4 to 7 to honor his late older brother, Dexter, who had passed away earlier that year.
Taysom Hill’s Career
Taysom Hill’s professional career in the NFL is defined by his extraordinary adaptability and his ability to excel in multiple positions, a rare trait that has made him a fan favorite and a strategic asset for his team. Despite his impressive college career, Hill went undrafted in the 2017 NFL Draft. He initially signed with the Green Bay Packers as an undrafted free agent in May 2017, appearing in three preseason games. However, he was waived by the Packers during final roster cuts in September 2017.
Just one day after being released by Green Bay, Hill was claimed off waivers by the New Orleans Saints on September 3, 2017, a move that would fundamentally shape his NFL trajectory. In his rookie season with the Saints, he primarily contributed on special teams. His role began to expand significantly in his second season, 2018, as the Saints recognized his unique skillset. He transitioned from a pure special teamer to a versatile offensive weapon, playing running back, wide receiver, tight end, fullback, and even kick returner, earning him the nickname “the Human Swiss Army Knife.”
A pivotal moment in Hill’s career came in March 2020 when the Saints placed a first-round restricted free agent tender on him, followed by a two-year, $16.3 million extension. Later that year, due to an injury to starting quarterback Drew Brees, Hill made his first career NFL start at quarterback in Week 11 against the Atlanta Falcons. He led the Saints to a 24-9 victory, completing 18 of 23 passes for 233 yards and rushing for 51 yards and two touchdowns.
Following Drew Brees’ retirement in 2021, Hill competed for the starting quarterback role but ultimately lost to Jameis Winston. However, his value to the team remained undiminished, leading to a four-year, $40 million extension with the Saints in November 2021. The contract was structured to offer significant cap relief to the Saints while recognizing Hill’s crucial, versatile contributions.
Throughout subsequent seasons, Hill continued to be an integral part of the Saints’ offense and special teams. In 2022, despite being listed primarily as a tight end, he excelled in a multi-positional role, particularly as a rusher, earning NFC Offensive Player of the Week honors in Week 5 against the Seattle Seahawks, where he scored a career-high four touchdowns. The 2023 season saw Hill achieve career highs in offensive touches, with 114, including 400 rushing yards and a personal-best 33 receptions for 291 yards.
In the 2024 season, Hill continued to demonstrate his versatility, taking snaps at quarterback, tight end, running back, and wide receiver, and contributing on special teams. He made NFL history in Week 11 against the Cleveland Browns, becoming the first player since 1971 to record three rushing touchdowns, 50 receiving yards, and a pass completion in a single game, and one of only two players in NFL history with at least 25 rushing, 10 passing, and 10 receiving touchdowns in their career. Unfortunately, his 2024 season was cut short in Week 13 when he suffered a season-ending torn ACL.
As of the 2025 offseason, Hill is officially designated as a tight end for the New Orleans Saints. Under new offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak‘s scheme, he is reportedly expanding his repertoire even further, engaging in more backfield work, including shotgun running back and lead-blocking fullback roles during organized team activities (OTAs). While his primary usage is expected to be as a runner and pass-catching weapon, his unparalleled versatility continues to make him a unique and unpredictable force in the NFL.
Taysom Hill’s Career Statistics (Regular Season, as of end of 2024 season)
Below is a summary of Taysom Hill’s career regular season statistics, showcasing his diverse contributions across multiple positions with the New Orleans Saints.
| Category | Total |
|---|---|
| Games Played | 105 |
| Passer Rating | 87.7 |
| Passing Yards | 2,369 |
| Passing Touchdowns | 11 |
| Interceptions Thrown | 9 |
| Rushing Attempts | 437 |
| Rushing Yards | 2,437 |
| Rushing Touchdowns | 33 |
| Receptions | 99 |
| Receiving Yards | 943 |
| Receiving Touchdowns | 11 |
| Kickoff Return Yards | 489 |
| Total Tackles | 17 |
| Total Touchdowns (overall) | 44 |
Taysom Hill Personal Life & Family
Taysom Hill’s personal life is rooted in his strong family values and his faith. He is married to Emily Nixon, his college sweetheart. The couple exchanged vows on April 12, 2014, at the Salt Lake Temple in Utah, following their engagement in late December 2013. Emily Nixon, born on July 20, 1992, is one of ten children and graduated from Brigham Young University, where she and Taysom met. Her brother, David Nixon, is a former NFL linebacker, further connecting their families to the world of professional football.
Taysom and Emily are proud parents to two sons. Their first son, Beau Nixon Hill, was born in August 2020. Their second son, Bennett Hill, arrived in July 2021. The Hills prioritize their family life, with Taysom emphasizing the importance of setting goals and building their family together.
Faith plays a significant role in Taysom Hill’s life and that of his family. As a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, his spiritual beliefs provide a foundational guide for navigating challenges and maintaining perspective, especially within the demanding environment of professional sports.
A poignant aspect of Hill’s personal journey is the loss of his older brother, Dexter. In honor of Dexter, Taysom changed his jersey number to 7 during his final year at BYU and has continued to wear it in the NFL. This act serves as a constant reminder of his brother and the bond they shared. The Hill family’s story is often highlighted as an example of strong support, resilience, and shared commitment, with Emily serving as Taysom’s steadfast foundation through his unique and challenging career.
Awards and Achievements of Taysom Hill
Taysom Hill’s career, marked by unparalleled versatility, has seen him achieve several notable awards and distinctions. His ability to perform across various positions has led to unique NFL records and recognition.
Key Awards and Honors:
- All-Idaho Player of the Year (High School): 2008
- Idaho Gatorade High School Player of the Year (High School): 2008
- First Team All-State Selection (High School): 2008
- College Sports Madness Independent Offensive Player of the Year (BYU): 2013
- NFF Scholar-Athlete (BYU): Received an $18,000 post-graduate scholarship
- NFC Special Teams Player of the Week: Week 14, 2018
- NFL Record: Most single-season touchdowns without a turnover by a quarterback (7 touchdowns) – 2019
- NFC Offensive Player of the Week: Week 5, 2022 (after scoring four touchdowns against Seattle)
- NFC Offensive Player of the Week: Week 11, 2024 (after historic performance against Cleveland)
- NFL Historic Feat (Frank Gifford): First NFL player since Frank Gifford (1952-64) to reach double-digit totals in passing, rushing, and receiving touchdowns.
- NFL Historic Feat (Rushing/Receiving/Passing TDs): One of only two players in NFL history with at least 25 rushing, 10 passing, and 10 receiving touchdowns in their career.
- NFL Historic Feat (Single Game): First player since 1971 to finish a game with three rushing touchdowns, 50 receiving yards, and a pass completion in a single game (Week 11, 2024 vs. Cleveland).
Taysom Hill Net Worth and Income
Taysom Hill’s net worth is a testament to his unique value in the NFL and his strategic contract negotiations. As of February 2025, his net worth is estimated to be around $62,205,000. His career earnings stand at $62,670,000.
Hill’s financial journey, particularly impressive for an undrafted player, is primarily driven by his NFL contracts and endorsements. In November 2021, Hill signed a four-year, $40 million extension with the New Orleans Saints, with the contract running through the 2025 season. This deal included $21.5 million in guaranteed money and an average annual salary of $10,000,000. The contract was structured with significant incentives, with a potential to escalate to a maximum value of $95 million over its duration if Hill were to become the Saints’ starting quarterback and meet certain performance objectives.
In 2025, Hill is set to earn a base salary of $10,000,000. His contract includes void years in 2026 and 2027, which have implications for future cap hits. Beyond his salary, Hill also supplements his income through various endorsement deals. He has partnered with prominent brands such as Adidas, Snickers, Idaho Potatoes, and Traeger Grills. These endorsements reflect his broad appeal and status as a recognizable figure in professional sports.
Legacy and Influence
Taysom Hill’s legacy in the NFL is being forged by his unprecedented versatility and his role in challenging traditional positional designations in professional football. His “Human Swiss Army Knife” moniker is more than just a catchy nickname; it embodies his profound impact on offensive strategy and player utilization.
Hill’s ability to seamlessly transition between quarterback, running back, wide receiver, tight end, and special teams has provided the New Orleans Saints with a unique strategic advantage. He forces opposing defenses to prepare for an array of possibilities whenever he steps onto the field, adding layers of complexity to game planning. This dynamic role has contributed to a broader conversation in the league about the value of multi-talented athletes and how they can be deployed in creative ways to maximize offensive production.
Beyond his on-field performance, Hill’s journey from an undrafted free agent with a history of significant college injuries to a highly compensated and impactful NFL player serves as an inspiration. His perseverance, adaptability, and unwavering commitment to his team and role have made him a respected figure within the league and among fans. His unique contributions highlight the evolving nature of football, where innovative coaches are finding new ways to utilize players with diverse skill sets. Hill’s public image is generally positive, characterized by his strong work ethic, team-first mentality, and dedication to his family and faith. He has also been involved in community initiatives, though specific details beyond his team’s general community efforts were not extensively detailed in the provided sources.
Interesting Facts about Taysom Hill
- The “Human Swiss Army Knife”: Taysom Hill earned this popular nickname due to his unparalleled ability to play multiple positions on offense and special teams, including quarterback, running back, wide receiver, tight end, and fullback.
- LDS Mission: Before his college football career fully took off, Hill served a two-year mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Sydney, Australia, delaying his college debut.
- Tribute Jersey Number: He changed his jersey number to 7 in his senior year at BYU and has continued to wear it in the NFL in honor of his late older brother, Dexter.
- Multi-Sport Athlete: In high school, Taysom excelled in not only football but also basketball and track, showcasing his all-around athleticism.
- College Records: At BYU, he became the only quarterback in school history with more than 4,000 passing yards and 2,000 rushing yards, and holds the record for most rushing yards and touchdowns by a quarterback.
- Unique NFL Records: Hill holds an NFL record for the most single-season touchdowns without a turnover by a quarterback (7 in 2019) and is the first player since Frank Gifford (1952-64) to achieve double-digit passing, rushing, and receiving touchdowns.
- Academic Acumen: He maintained a 3.45 GPA as a finance major at BYU and pursued an MBA, demonstrating his commitment to academics alongside athletics.
Controversies
Throughout his public and professional career, Taysom Hill has maintained a remarkably clean record. Extensive research into “Taysom Hill controversies” reveals no significant public scandals, legal issues, or major disciplinary actions. His public image is consistently portrayed as professional, dedicated, and family-oriented. Any “controversies” surrounding Taysom Hill typically revolve around discussions about his unique role within the Saints’ offensive scheme and debates among fans and analysts regarding his optimal usage, rather than personal or ethical challenges.
Social Media Presence
Taysom Hill maintains an active presence on social media platforms, engaging with fans and sharing updates about his professional and personal life. These platforms serve as a direct channel for his followers to connect with him and follow his journey.
Instagram: Taysom Hill’s official Instagram account (@taysomhill) has 368K followers as of August 2025.
X (formerly Twitter): His official X account (@T_Hill4) has 161.9K followers as of August 2025.
He often shares insights into his training, game-day experiences, and moments with his family, offering a glimpse into the life of the “Human Swiss Army Knife” beyond the football field.
Final Words about Taysom Hill
Taysom Hill stands as a truly singular figure in the National Football League, a testament to versatility, resilience, and unwavering dedication. Despite facing numerous setbacks, including multiple season-ending injuries during his college career and going undrafted in the NFL, Hill has forged an extraordinary path with the New Orleans Saints. His current status as a tight end, coupled with his historical deployment across virtually every offensive and special teams position, underscores his unique value and adaptability in a league that often prioritizes specialization.
As of the 2025 season, Hill continues to evolve his game, integrating new roles like fullback into his already extensive repertoire under the Saints’ new offensive coordinator. This continuous evolution speaks to his enduring impact and the innovative ways coaches are seeking to leverage his diverse talents. His impressive career earnings and numerous accolades are a reflection not just of his athletic gifts, but also his intelligence, work ethic, and team-first mentality.
Looking ahead, Taysom Hill’s legacy will undoubtedly be defined by his “Human Swiss Army Knife” moniker and his role in challenging the conventional boundaries of an NFL player. He represents the ultimate offensive weapon, capable of disrupting defenses in countless ways. His journey serves as an inspiration, demonstrating that success in professional sports can come in many forms, particularly for those willing to adapt, innovate, and contribute wherever they are needed most. His future in the league will continue to be a fascinating narrative, as he seeks to add more chapters to his already remarkable career with the New Orleans Saints.
