Texas Safety Michael Taaffe Undergoes Thumb Surgery, Expected to Miss Upcoming Games

Texas Longhorns safety Michael Taaffe, a key defensive leader and the team's leading tackler in 2025, underwent thumb surgery and is expected to miss multiple upcoming games but not the entire season. Taaffe, who injured his thumb in an overtime win against Kentucky, has been instrumental this season with 51 tackles, an interception, and a sack, and is considered one of the top safeties nationally. His absence will force the Longhorns to rely on backups like Derek Williams Jr. and versatile safety Jelani McDonald to fill the defensive backfield. Taaffe's leadership and playmaking abilities are highly valued, with Pro Football Focus grading him as one of the highest-graded safeties in the country. Despite the setback, Taaffe is anticipated to return around mid-November, contributing to Texas’ push in a challenging SEC schedule. The Longhorns will need to adjust their secondary depth and continue to rely on their defensive unit's resilience during his recovery.