Taco Charlton

Taco Charlton's Biography

Vidauntae “Taco” Charlton is a highly skilled professional American footballer who entered the United Football League (UFL) with force, playing as the defensive end for the Birmingham Stallions. Born on November 7, 1994, he started his American football journey in Ohio and has now played on numerous professional football teams across the United States.

Charlton’s life began with a unique story, as he was born prematurely, two months ahead of schedule at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. He acquired his distinguishable nickname, Taco, due to his grandmother’s playful banter to her pregnant daughter. She’d refer to her future grandson’s impatience with a Taco Bell slogan, quipping, “you had best not make a run for the border.”

Charlton’s athletic journey began at Pickerington High School Central in Pickerington, Ohio. Excelling in multiple positions including defensive end, outside linebacker, and tight end, his football prowess was already apparent. There, he racked up a total of 35 tackles and eight pass breakups as a sophomore. By senior year, his dual abilities dazzled, as shown by his 116 tackles (24 for losses) and 19 sacks, earning him Division I All-Ohio honors. Additionally, he also had the opportunity to showcase his talents on the basketball court, where he played alongside future NBA players Caris LeVert, Jae’Sean Tate and Javon Bess.

Attracted by Charlton’s significant potential, the University of Michigan extended a football scholarship, which he accepted enthusiastically. He began earning his recognition as a backup defensive end as a true freshman in 2013, totaling two defensive tackles, half of which were for a loss. Growing in confidence and tackling prowess, he made 19 tackles in his sophomore year, including 5.5 for a loss, and he improved to 30 tackles in his junior year, 8.5 of which were for losses.

As a senior, Charlton didn’t allow a high ankle sprain, which forced him to miss two games, break his spirit. Instead, he bounced back stronger, becoming a starter at right defensive end and leading the team with a whopping 9.5 sacks. This feat positioned him tenth in school history, earning him a spot on the All-Big Ten Conference defensive first-team.

Taco Charlton’s professional career in the NFL began with the Dallas Cowboys, who saw great value in him, selecting him in the first round of the 2017 NFL draft. His four-year, $10.02 million contract signed on May 11, 2017, was tangible proof of the confidence the team had in him. He became a backup left defensive end, shadowing DeMarcus Lawrence.

Despite a slow start, Charlton’s regular season debut against the New York Giants kick-started his Cowboys career. In later games, Charlton got into his stride, recording his first career tackle against the Denver Broncos. His first career sack was against the Kansas City Chiefs, and his tenure with the Cowboys ended with 19 tackles, three sacks, one pass defended, one forced fumble, and 11 quarterback hurries.

Following his spell with the Cowboys, Charlton experienced multiple transfers across various times from 2018 to 2022. Among the teams he played for were; Miami Dolphins, Kansas City Chiefs, Pittsburgh Steelers, New Orleans Saints, Chicago Bears, and Jacksonville Jaguars. However, it was his decision to move to the United Football League that brought a notable highlight in his career.

Signed by the Birmingham Stallions in 2024, Charlton exceeded expectations when he won a championship with them in his first season. Despite the transitions he has encountered throughout his career, Charlton’s unyielding determination and love for the game persist. His career thus far is a testament to his resilience and drive to continue excelling in American football.