Taco Charlton Bio
Vidauntae “Taco” Charlton is an American professional football defensive end for the Arlington Renegades of the United Football League (UFL). He played college football at the University of Michigan and was selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft. Over his career, he has also been a member of several teams, including the Miami Dolphins, Kansas City Chiefs, Pittsburgh Steelers, New Orleans Saints, Chicago Bears, Jacksonville Jaguars, and San Francisco 49ers. In 2024, he won a championship with the Birmingham Stallions in his first year in the UFL.
Early Life and Background
Taco Charlton was born on November 7, 1994, at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center in Columbus, Ohio. He was born two months prematurely, which led to his nickname “Taco,” derived from a family anecdote involving a Taco Bell slogan. Charlton attended Pickerington Central High School in Pickerington, Ohio, where he showcased his versatility by playing as a defensive end, outside linebacker, and tight end. During his senior year, he recorded impressive statistics, including 116 tackles and 19 sacks, earning Division I All-Ohio honors. He committed to the University of Michigan as a four-star recruit. In addition to football, Charlton also played basketball in high school alongside future NBA players.
Path to American Football
At the University of Michigan, Taco Charlton accepted a football scholarship and began his college career in 2013. Initially, he played as a backup defensive end, primarily on special teams, but gradually increased his impact on the field. By his senior year in 2016, he became a starter and led the team with 9.5 sacks, earning First-team All-Big Ten honors. His performance at Michigan positioned him as a top prospect for the NFL Draft, where he was projected to be a first-round pick.
Taco Charlton Career
Early Career (2017-2019)
Taco Charlton was selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft, being the 28th overall pick. He signed a four-year contract worth over $10 million. In his rookie season, he played in 16 games, recording 19 tackles and three sacks. However, he faced challenges in his second season, including a shoulder injury that limited his playing time. In 2019, after a tumultuous preseason, he was released by the Cowboys.
Breakthrough (2019-2020)
After being claimed off waivers by the Miami Dolphins, Taco Charlton made an immediate impact, recording five sacks in his first season with the team. He started five games and finished the season with 21 tackles. However, he was waived in 2020 after the Dolphins acquired new defensive talent. He then signed with the Kansas City Chiefs, where he had a brief stint before suffering injuries that limited his contributions.
Notable Works and Milestones
Taco Charlton’s signature work includes his standout performance at the University of Michigan, which led to his first-round selection in the NFL Draft. He has also achieved notable milestones, including being named a UFL champion in 2024 and earning First-team All-Big Ten honors in 2016.
Taco Charlton Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Taco Charlton has received recognition for his performance on the field, including being named First-team All-Big Ten in 2016.
Taco Charlton Awards Won
Taco Charlton has won several awards, including the UFL championship in 2024 and First-team All-Big Ten honors in 2016.
Taco Charlton Family
Information regarding Taco Charlton’s family is not publicly available.
Personal Life
Taco Charlton’s personal life details, including marital status and children, are not publicly disclosed.