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3d ago

Texas Safety Michael Taaffe Undergoes Thumb Surgery, Return Timeline Unclear

Steve Sarkisian calls the loss significant, with Derek Williams Jr. plus Xavier Filsaime set for larger roles.

Oct 18, 2025; Lexington, Kentucky, USA; Texas Longhorns defensive back Michael Taaffe (16) celebrates after the game against the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Prather-Imagn Images
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Overview

  • Taaffe had thumb surgery on Monday and is expected to return this season, according to On3’s Pete Nakos, though no timetable has been set.
  • Sarkisian told reporters the team does not know how long Taaffe will be out and described his absence as a significant loss.
  • A KVUE report cited a source saying the thumb is broken and the doctor deliberately avoided giving a timeline to keep Taaffe from rushing back.
  • The injury occurred late in the Kentucky game, yet Taaffe finished the fourth quarter and played in overtime, per the KVUE report.
  • Taaffe leads Texas with 51 tackles and holds a 91.1 PFF grade, with Derek Williams Jr. as the primary replacement and Xavier Filsaime in line for expanded snaps.