Andrew Mukuba wasn’t the top safety pick before the draft. Scouts ranked him lower because of his small frame. The writer covering the draft for Bleeding Green Nation had him as the fifth-ranked safety. It was a surprise to some fans who expected a higher pick.
The real shock? How well he played despite those size worries. Before the draft, the writer noted he might struggle as a full-time player. He had small arms and did not wrap up well on tackles. Yet, on the field, Mukuba made huge plays that changed games.
64. Just one pick later than expected.
The Size Myth Busted
Pre-draft notes warned that his physical limits could stop him in the NFL. The writer questioned if he could play at his size against bigger athletes. Those fears turned out to be mostly wrong. Mukuba hit hard and dominated at the point of attack.
His instincts were better than anyone expected. The writer said he has some of the best football instincts in the entire class. This trait helped him make a mistake count during a game against the Vikings. The Eagles got lucky with a drop, but Mukuba deserved the credit.
According to Bleeding Green Nation, the writer thought Pick 64 was the right spot for him. But the on-field results showed he was worth much more. He is now seen as a new playmaker for the team. This shift happened faster than anyone predicted.
Who said size matters most?
Fangio’s System Fits Perfectly
Mukuba fits perfectly into Vic Fangio’s defensive scheme. The writer noted he would be fantastic as a split-safety in this defense. His ability to read route concepts is outstanding. He already knows how to play many of the coverages Fangio uses.
This knowledge made him an instant asset. He doesn’t need to learn the system from scratch. His instincts allow him to react before the play develops. This is a rare skill for a rookie entering Year 2.
Per Bleeding Green Nation, the writer wasn’t worried about his lack of talent. The concern was only about his physical limitations. Now, those limitations seem less important than his mind. He is learning fast and still not perfect, but he is improving.
Can you teach instincts?
Why This Matters
The Eagles lost CJGJ this offseason, a key playmaker. Mukuba has stepped up to fill that void. Fans worried about the defense after last year’s struggles. Now, there is hope that the rookie can lead the way.
His success proves that instincts matter more than size. This changes how the team might value future picks. A player with great football IQ can overcome physical flaws. Mukuba is the proof of this theory.
The defense will need every bit of help it can get. Mukuba’s growth in Year 2 is critical for the Eagles. If he stays healthy, he could be a star. The team has a new leader on the back end.
Is the Eagles’ defense finally safe?
