Texas All-American Announces Major Career Decision on Tuesday

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Max Escarpio | Last updated Jan 14, 2025 9:03 PM ET

The Texas Longhorns had a phenomenal college football season in 2024, finishing their first year in the SEC with a 13-3 record and a 7-1 mark in conference play.

Texas reached the semifinals of the College Football Playoff for the second straight season but lost 28-14 to Ohio State on Friday in the Cotton Bowl Classic.

As head coach Steve Sarkisian and the Longhorns turn to the offseason, many players have announced their transfer portal and NFL draft decisions.

All-American safety Michael Taaffe was the latest to announce his decision on his future in college football. Taaffe posted a video to Longhorn Nation on Tuesday, revealing that he will be returning to Texas for the 2025 season.

"Growing up I dreamed of playing at the University of Texas," Taaffe said. "These last four years have been so special to me. To play in the burnt orange was always a dream come true, but more than that, I dreamed of winning a national championship... The job's not over and the mission's not finished. It's to finish that mission. Longhorn nation, let's run it back."

Longhorn nation… pic.twitter.com/U8Go2jk0WH
— Michael Taaffe (@MichaelTaaffe4) January 15, 2025

Taaffe is heading into his fifth year with the Longhorns after arriving to Texas as a walk-on. The Austin, Texas, native did not see any game action in 2021. In 2022, he played in 13 games with one start as a redshirt freshman.

He continued to climb the ladder to Texas' starting lineup. In 2023, Taaffe finished the season an All-Big 12 honorable mention, posting 48 tackles, three interceptions and two pass deflections.

Taaffe then took a major leap forward in 2024, cementing himself as one of the best defensive players in the nation. During the 2024 college football season, Taaffe recorded 78 tackles, 10 pass deflections, two sacks, two interceptions and one forced fumble.

The Longhorns look to be flipping the page from Quinn Ewers to Arch Manning at quarterback in 2025. While the offense will likely have a major reboot, Taaffe will help keep the Longhorns' anchor down on the defensive end.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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