'Dynamic' Andrew Mukuba will help modernize Clemson defense
CLEMSON — Andrew Mukuba is a hybrid defender that can tackle like a linebacker and cover like a cornerback.
This makes him the perfect candidate to be a high-level safety in college football.
The Clemson Tigers are always looking to fill their defense with versatile pieces and Mukuba fits that mold.
Who is Andrew Mukuba?
Mukuba was ranked No. 165 in the final 247 Sports Composite rankings while being a top-30 prospect in the state of Texas.
The 185-pound safety played both sides of the football for Austin (Texas) LBJ Early College. Mukuba had six receiving touchdowns to go along with six interceptions in 2020.
The prospect didn’t just get it done on the gridiron.
Mukuba was a dynamic track and field athlete, competing in sprints to go along with the long jump and triple jump. The blue-chip prospect brings speed and dynamic leaping ability to the Upstate.
What does Andrew Mukuba add to Clemson?
Dabo Swinney has addressed how much the safety position has changed in college football within the last decade. Now defenses need players to be able to play in space and win one-on-one matchups.
Mukuba has the traits required to become one of these football unicorns.
“Andrew Mukuba is an unbelievable athlete that we are taking right out of the heart of Texas,” said safeties coach Mickey Conn on signing day. “Andrew is a dynamic player in all phases of the game. The thing that caught my eye when I first started recruiting Andrew was how physical a player this kid is. This kid hits like a linebacker. But he’s fast like a corner and changes direction like a corner and can play man coverage like a corner.”
Andrew Mukuba is a versatile athlete that can do multiple things at safety. (Twitter/Andrew Mukuba)
How did we get here?
Mukuba was a high four-star recruit in Texas and that means a lot of attention. Oklahoma was heavily involved early, but a late push by Texas and LSU had the blue bloods in the running.
Clemson found a way to get it done.
Swinney made this recruitment a priority for the staff and the Tigers were able to lock up the four-star prospect with a commitment on Sept. 1, 2020.
Big Picture
Safety is a very difficult position to play in modern college football. These players are asked to do a lot and a multi-dimensional skill set is a necessity.
Mukuba might have the total package and is a guy who will push for playing time as a true freshman.
“Loves the game, has tremendous character, a positive attitude, and fits the Clemson culture,” said Conn.