Michael Taaffe Wins 2025 Wuerffel Trophy

ATLANTA — Texas Longhorns senior safety Michael Taaffe has been named the recipient of the 2025 Wuerffel Trophy, widely known as "College Football's Premier Award for Community Service."

The announcement was made Thursday during the Home Depot College Football Awards. Taaffe becomes the second Longhorn in history to win the award, joining Sam Acho (2010).

A Leader on and off the Field

Taaffe's journey from walk-on to team captain and SEC starter is well documented, but his impact off the field has been equally profound. Throughout his time in Austin, Taaffe has logged hundreds of hours of community service, working with organizations such as:

• Silver Spurs: Mentoring local youth.
• Neighborhood Longhorns Program: Promoting educational achievement in Austin schools.
• Dell Children's Medical Center: Regular visits to uplift patients and families.

Head Coach Steve Sarkisian praised Taaffe's genuine heart for service, noting that his selflessness on the field mirrors his character off of it.

2025 Season Impact

On the field, Taaffe remained a cornerstone of the Texas defense in 2025. He finished the regular season with 65 tackles and 3 interceptions, helping guide the Longhorns to a 9-3 record and a Citrus Bowl berth.

Upon receiving the honor, Taaffe expressed humility in joining the list of past recipients and credited his teammates, family, and the Austin community for their support.

Taaffe will officially accept the award at the Wuerffel Trophy Presentation Gala later this winter.