Texas' Michael Taaffe reveals 'different' approach to navigating NIL

During his time at Texas, Michael Taaffe built an impressive social media following with more than 80,000 followers across Instagram and X. That platform is important in the NIL era – but Taaffe took a “different” approach.

Taaffe didn’t ink many high-profile deals during his time at Texas. He was part of Sonic’s activation along with some Longhorns teammates and Texas A&M players, and he joined Seat Geek’s initiative ahead of last year’s College Football Playoff.

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Instead, Taaffe’s focus remained on the big picture, which included his efforts with Texas Against Fentanyl. That’s why he wasn’t necessarily active in the NIL space with deals.

“I think NIL, for me, has been a little bit different because there’s opportunities that I have taken to get a little cash in the wallet, in the pocket,” Taaffe told On3 via Zoom on behalf of Allstate. “But I think, would you much rather have this little success? This little financial success that at the end of the day, when you have to go buy a house, when you have to get a car, when you have to pay rent, this little success isn’t going to matter in the long-term? Or, would you rather have success and significance to the University of Texas that will last 100 years? I chose that route.”

Taaffe focused on giving back throughout his time at Texas. His efforts in substance abuse prevention helped him win the Wuerrfel Trophy, the premier award for community service. He helped raise nearly $60,000 for Texas Against Fentanyl through a fundraiser, which he said helped cover the organization’s yearly budget.

Taaffe’s efforts went beyond substance abuse awareness, though. He also helped raise more than $100,000 for the Texas Flood Relief Foundation after the flooding at Camp Mystic earlier this year and has visited the Dell Children’s Hospital to distribute food.

But while other athletes star in ads or promote different products through NIL, Michael Taaffe wanted the ability to have a platform to make a difference. He understands why his peers have a different approach, though. It just didn’t fit with his goals.

“I don’t fault anybody for the routes they take,” Taaffe said. “But I just knew that I believe being significant is way more important than being successful.”