Key Highlights
- The team has a dynamic duo in Harrison Smith and Josh Metellus, but Smith may be playing in the final games of his NFL career.
- Because of that, we want to make sure we cover enough safeties to see some who may be future Vikings in 2026 and beyond. With that in mind, here is our report on Texas's Michael TaaffeInformationMichael TaaffeSchool: TexasConference: SECHeight/Weight: 5-11 3/4, 175 lbs. Age when Drafted: 23Previous Schools: NoBackground0-Star RecruitIntercepted Quinn Ewers in the Texas State Title GameWalked on at TexasSecond-Team All-American in 2024First-Team All-SEC in 2025Notable Stats from 2025 (minus the Bowl Game)Tackles: 222Tackles for a Loss and Sacks: 12.5Interceptions: 7Pass Breakups: 14Notable PFF Numbers from 2025 (minus the Bowl Game)PFF Run Defense Grade: 72.9PFF Coverage Grade: 89.4Completion Percentage Allowed: 66.7%NFL QBR when Targeted: 59.7Penalties Called For: 1SkillsGood closing speed on ball carriersCan make tackles in the open fieldFluid in change of direction due to hip and footwork abilityExcellent ball skillsAbove-average coverage abilityPlayer SummaryMichael Taaffe's Football Life is something out of a movie where he bet on himself, and the return on investment is tenfold.
- He walked on at Texas and immediately proved he was worthy of a roster spot.
- Taaffe is a fun safety prospect and was a dynamic player in the Longhorn defense during his time with the team.
- He finds the ball on the ground and in the air; he has range to provide run support, and he has seemingly gotten better across the board with time.