As the game entered its decisive fourth quarter, ESPN cameras panned to the VIP suite where Taylor, a legendary Dolphins defensive end and now University of Miami defensive line coach, was seated. The broadcast caught Monica perched on her husband’s lap, a candid and affectionate moment between the couple who celebrated their fifth wedding anniversary this August. In a split second, Monica hurriedly moved to her own seat as the camera lingered, and the moment ignited a wildfire of reactions online. Comparisons to the infamous “Coldplay kiss cam” incident—which once revealed an alleged affair at a concert—spread like wildfire, with viewers joking that Jason was “caught in 4K,” only to quickly realize he was with his wife.
Monica Taylor, formerly Monica Laurent, is no stranger to the NFL limelight herself. Once a Miami Dolphins cheerleader from 2013 to 2017, she met Jason during her tenure on the sidelines. Today, she is a fashion entrepreneur, the founder and creative director of Monuit, and the vice president of the Jason Taylor Foundation, working alongside Jason to support youth throughout South Florida. Their family includes their son Jordan, born in July 2021, while Jason also co-parents Mason, Isaiah, and Zoe from a previous relationship.
The Taylor family had more than just each other to cheer for on this night. Jason was there to support his son, rookie tight end Mason Taylor of the Jets, who delivered a breakout performance with five receptions for 65 yards on seven targets—his best showing yet. The Dolphins, however, edged out the Jets in a 27-21 victory, but the win was bittersweet as Miami lost star receiver Tyreek Hill to a devastating season-ending leg injury.
For Jason Taylor, who spent most of his storied career with the Dolphins—amassing 775 tackles, 139.5 sacks, and six Pro Bowl selections before being enshrined in Canton in 2017—moments like these represent the full-circle magic of football. The viral “Coldplay moment” may have been awkward in the glare of the cameras, but for Jason and Monica, it was just another memory in a life devoted to football, family, and the thrill of game night.
Social media may have had its fun, but the truth is undeniable: the Taylors’ love story is no secret, and their passion for the game—and for each other—remains as electric as ever. To relive the viral moment, check out the replay on X (formerly Twitter).