Will former Clemson safety Andrew Mukuba become Longhorns’ go-to guy in 2024?

Steve Sarkisian has placed a large focus on his defensive secondary since taking over the Texas Longhorns football program.

His unrelenting work to grow, adapt, and improve the Horns’ roster was best reflected in the 2024 transfer portal.

Former Clemson Tigers safety Andrew Mukuba was one of Sarkisian’s bigger pickups from the portal and he is now vying for the No. 1 spot at the position.

Texas wasn’t lacking at the safety position before Mukuba decided to transfer to Austin. The Horns retained veterans Michael Taaffe and Derek Williams, as well as Sarkisian’s most recent recruit Xavier Filsaime.

With so much depth at a position that usually has just one or two players on the field at a time, which Longhorn will become the go-to guy in 2024?

The case for Andrew Mukuba

While the Tigers struggled throughout the 2023-24 season, Andrew Mukuba was a highlight of Clemson’s defense.

In his third year with Clemson, Mukuba recorded 42 total tackles and 6 pass deflections last season. 

Throughout his collegiate career, Mukuba has 1 sack and 1 interception to his name, alongside 142 total tackles.

While Mukuba is just 6-foot-0 and 195 pounds, his speed and ball awareness make up for what he lacks in stature.

His experience at the national level certainly gives him a leg up on freshman Filsaime and sophomore Williams.

The case for Michael Taaffe

Taaffe has spent his two collegiate seasons with the Longhorns and had a show-stopping season in 2023.

With 48 tackles, 3 interceptions, and 2 pass deflections, Taaffe was a rock for Texas’ defense last season. 

Taaffe is slightly smaller than Mukuba but he knows the Longhorn program like the back of his hand and has been a leader for the Horns.

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