Michael Taaffe, 5‑Star DB, Chooses Texas A&M Over Tennessee & LSU
In a shocking development, 5‑star defensive back Michael Taaffe has officially committed to Texas A&M — spurning powerhouse programs Tennessee and LSU. The Austin native and former walk-on star left college football observers stunned as he flips to the Aggies, sending ripples through the SEC landscape.
Taaffe’s journey is nothing short of remarkable. A former Westlake High standout and two-time state championship defensive MVP, he initially signed as a preferred walk-on at Texas in 2021 . After gritting his way into a scholarship by December 2022, he steadily climbed the depth chart, becoming one of the Longhorns’ most dynamic defenders.
During the 2024 campaign, Taaffe emerged as a cornerstone of Texas’s elite defense. He earned SEC Co‑Defensive Player of the Week honors after notching an interception and forced fumble in a tight win over Vanderbilt .followed by a key interception against rival Texas A&M that helped secure a berth in the SEC title game . His performance earned him All‑American honors and a spot as a Burlsworth Trophy semifinalist
Taaffe finishes his college career boasting 78 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, two sacks, and two interceptions — anchoring a top‑ranked Aggies-like defense
In committing to Texas A&M, Taaffe cited the chance to stay in-state, immediate starting opportunity, and the Aggies’ robust player development and NFL pipeline. His decision marks a major recruiting victory for Jimbo Fisher’s program, handing A&M one of the most coveted DBs in the nation and a player ready to contribute day one.
With Taaffe on board, Texas A&M not only boosts its secondary but sends a bold message to rivals: the Aggies are a destination. Expect Taaffe to step into a leadership role and continue his ascent in the SEC.
