Michael Taaffe earns spot on Allstate Wuerffel Trophy watch list
This marks the first time that the Westlake High School product has been linked to the award. Sam Echo was the latest Longhorns player to take home the honors in 2010. While Taaffe has shined on the field, he has also given back to the community.
During his college career, Taaffe established Taaffe's Tackles for Fentanyl Awareness. The organization raises awareness about Fentanyl addiction. His work does not stop there, as the talented defensive back has partnered with Crime Stoppers of Houston's Million for Million Campaign that also raises awareness about fentanyl.
When Taaffe isn't giving back to the community, he makes life hard for offensive coordinators. He finished the 2024 campaign with 78 tackles and two interceptions. The former walk-on started all 16 games and was stellar in the College Football Playoffs when needed the most. Against Arizona State in the Quarterfinals, Taaffe recorded a career-high ten tackles and two pass breakups.
For Longhorns fans, Taaffe's latest honor comes as no surprise. He has been one of the program's best players and also helped those in need. This week, his name also appeared on the Jim Thorpe Award watch list. While his goal is to bring a national title to Austin, he is in the running for additional hardware.
The winner of the 2025 Allstate Wuerffel Trophy will be selected by a national voting committee, with input from a fan vote. On December 12th, the winner will be revealed at the Home Depot College Football Awards show. Taaffe is hoping he will hear his name called alongside some of the best players in the nation.
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