D.J. Taylor Bio
David Justin Taylor, known professionally as D.J. Taylor, is an American professional soccer player who plays as a full-back for Major League Soccer club Minnesota United. Standing 5 feet 8 inches tall, he wears the number 27 jersey and has developed into a reliable defender since turning professional in 2015. Born and raised in North Carolina, Taylor began his playing career in youth academies before moving abroad to Spain and later returning to the United States to compete in higher professional divisions.
Early Life and Background
David Justin Taylor was born on August 26, 1997, in Raleigh, North Carolina, United States. Growing up in a region with a deep soccer culture, Taylor was introduced to the sport at a young age through local youth programs. His early development took place in Raleigh, where he quickly demonstrated the athletic ability and tactical awareness that would later define his professional career.
Taylor joined CASL Chelsea in 2010, beginning a four-year run with the prestigious youth club that has produced several notable American soccer talents. During his time at CASL Chelsea, he developed the technical skills and positional discipline required to compete at higher levels. In 2012, he also joined the North Carolina FC Youth setup, then operating under the name Carolina RailHawks, allowing him to train within a professional club environment while continuing his development.
Path to Professional Soccer
Taylor’s transition toward a professional career began in 2015, when he signed an amateur contract with the Carolina RailHawks first team in May of that year. Although he did not make a senior appearance for the club, the amateur deal signaled his readiness for competitive senior football. Later that same year, Taylor made the bold decision to move abroad, signing with Spanish Tercera División side Torre Levante to gain experience in European football.
During his time with Torre Levante, Taylor was integrated into the club’s youth setup, where he adapted to the technical and tactical demands of Spanish football. In 2017, he transferred to Buñol, another Spanish club competing in the lower tiers of Spanish football. These formative experiences in Spain helped refine his defensive play and broadened his understanding of the game before he ultimately returned to the United States to pursue a full professional career.
D.J. Taylor Career
Early Career (2015-2017)
D.J. Taylor’s senior career began in earnest in 2015 when he signed with Torre Levante in Spain’s Tercera División. Although opportunities at the senior level were limited during his time with the club, the experience provided a strong foundation for his development. In 2017, he briefly joined Buñol before deciding to return home to the United States in search of a more direct professional pathway.
On July 27, 2017, Taylor signed a professional contract with North Carolina FC in the North American Soccer League. Just days before his signing, he had already featured for the club in a friendly against Swansea City as a guest player. He made his official debut on August 13 against the Jacksonville Armada, starting and playing 65 minutes in a 2-2 draw.
North Carolina FC Breakthrough (2017-2020)
After a limited debut season in 2017 that included just two appearances, Taylor broke through as the starting right-back for North Carolina FC’s inaugural USL Championship campaign. He featured in 32 matches during that pivotal season, cementing his place as a core member of the squad. The following year, he started 33 matches, further demonstrating his consistency and durability.
On January 6, 2020, Taylor signed a contract extension with North Carolina FC, keeping him at the club for a fourth season. His steady performances and reliability made him one of the dependable figures in the team’s defensive structure. Over the course of his time with the club, he established himself as a versatile and committed defender capable of contributing on both sides of the pitch.
Minnesota United Era (2021-Present)
On February 16, 2021, D.J. Taylor joined Major League Soccer club Minnesota United, marking a significant step up in his professional journey. He made his MLS debut on July 3, 2021, entering as a substitute in a 2-2 home draw against the San Jose Earthquakes. The debut showcased his readiness to compete at the top tier of American club soccer.
Taylor scored his first MLS goal on May 22, 2022, finding the net against FC Dallas in a memorable moment for both player and club. He has also been listed with Minnesota United 2, the club’s developmental side competing in MLS NEXT Pro. Throughout his tenure with Minnesota United, Taylor has provided depth and reliability across the back line, contributing to the team’s defensive efforts in domestic competition.
Notable Events and Milestones
One of the defining moments of Taylor’s career came on May 22, 2022, when he scored his first MLS goal against FC Dallas. His transition from the lower professional ranks in Spain and the USL Championship to Major League Soccer represents a notable career milestone. Additionally, his appearances with the United States under-18 side in 2015 underscored his recognition as a promising young talent within American soccer circles.
D.J. Taylor Career Wins
While detailed win totals across individual competitions are not fully verifiable, D.J. Taylor has accumulated meaningful appearances and contributions throughout his professional career. From his early professional spell in Spain to his breakthrough years at North Carolina FC and his current role with Minnesota United, Taylor has consistently been part of competitive squads. His first MLS goal in 2022 stands as a career highlight at the top level of American soccer.
North Carolina FC Highlights
During his time with North Carolina FC, Taylor established himself as a reliable defender in both the North American Soccer League and the USL Championship. He played 32 matches in the club’s first USL Championship season and followed that with 33 starts the next year. His consistency earned him a contract extension in January 2020, recognizing his value to the team’s back line.
Other Wins & Performances
In 2015, Taylor represented the United States under-18 side at the Copa Chivas Tournament, making two appearances and scoring one goal. His early international experience highlighted his potential and contributed to his development as a professional defender. These performances at the youth international level complemented his club progression through the ranks.
D.J. Taylor Family
Personal Life
David Justin Taylor, widely known by his nickname D.J., was born and raised in Raleigh, North Carolina. Limited public information is available regarding his immediate family members, parents, or marital status. Taylor maintains a presence on social media, where fans can follow his professional updates through his verified Instagram account.
2025 Season Performance
As of the 2025 season, D.J. Taylor continues his role with Minnesota United in Major League Soccer, contributing as a full-back option within the squad. Having established himself since his 2021 arrival, Taylor remains part of the team’s depth chart and continues to provide defensive support in domestic fixtures. His experience across multiple competitive environments in both Spain and the United States positions him as a steady contributor.
Throughout the 2025 campaign, Taylor’s familiarity with the club’s tactical system and his understanding of MLS competition serve as valuable assets. He continues to train and compete with Minnesota United 2 as part of the club’s developmental structure, helping bridge the pathway between the reserve side and the first team. His consistency and professionalism have made him a respected figure within the organization.
Looking ahead, Taylor’s focus remains on contributing to Minnesota United’s competitive efforts in Major League Soccer. His journey from the youth ranks of CASL Chelsea to the top flight of American soccer exemplifies steady professional growth. With continued opportunities, he aims to remain a reliable presence for the club while pursuing further milestones in his career.