Dabo Swinney Reflects on Former Clemson Safety Andrew Mukuba, Now Thriving at Texas
CLEMSON, SC – As Clemson prepares to conclude another challenging football season, head coach Dabo Swinney took time during a recent press conference to address the success of a former Tiger: Andrew Mukuba. The talented safety, who played a key role in Clemson’s secondary before transferring to Texas, has become a standout player for the Longhorns. Swinney praised Mukuba for his contributions at Clemson and expressed pride in his continued growth on and off the field.
“He was a great player for us before, and he’s a great player now,” Swinney said. “Andrew is one of those guys who always gives 100 percent, whether he’s on the practice field, in a game, or in the classroom. It’s no surprise he’s thriving at Texas. That’s just who he is.”
Mukuba arrived at Clemson in 2021 as a highly touted recruit out of Austin, Texas. It didn’t take long for him to make his presence felt. As a true freshman, Mukuba displayed maturity and versatility beyond his years, earning the starting safety spot and becoming the first true freshman in Clemson history to start a season opener at that position.
During his freshman year, Mukuba tallied 47 tackles, six pass breakups, and an interception, earning him ACC Defensive Rookie of the Year honors. His instincts, speed, and ability to read offenses made him a cornerstone of Clemson’s defense.
“Andrew brought an energy to our defense that was contagious,” Swinney recalled. “He was young, but you wouldn’t know it watching him play. He had a natural football IQ, and he played with a toughness and confidence that lifted everyone around him.”
After two successful seasons at Clemson, Mukuba made the decision to transfer back to his home state of Texas, joining the Longhorns ahead of the 2023 season. While the move surprised some, Swinney emphasized that it was made with Mukuba’s best interests in mind.
“Every player has their own journey, and sometimes that means making a change,” Swinney said. “Andrew’s decision to transfer wasn’t an easy one, but it was what he felt was right for him and his family. We fully supported him, and we continue to cheer for him from afar.”
At Texas, Mukuba has flourished under head coach Steve Sarkisian and defensive coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski. His role in the Longhorns’ secondary has been critical to their success this season, with Mukuba consistently making big plays in coverage and run support.
Swinney’s comments about Mukuba reflect a broader philosophy of fostering strong relationships with players, even after they leave the program. He emphasized that Clemson’s commitment to its players extends beyond their time on the team.
“Once a Tiger, always a Tiger,” Swinney said. “Andrew knows he’ll always have a family here at Clemson. We’re incredibly proud of him and everything he’s accomplished. Watching him grow and succeed is what it’s all about.”
While Mukuba is now donning burnt orange instead of Clemson orange, his legacy with the Tigers remains intact. His impact during his time at Clemson, both as a player and a teammate, has left a lasting impression on the program.
“Andrew was one of those guys who made everyone around him better,” said Clemson defensive coordinator Wes Goodwin. “He set a standard for how to prepare and compete. We miss him, but we’re thrilled to see him thriving.”
With Texas competing for a College Football Playoff berth, Mukuba’s play could be instrumental in determining how far the Longhorns go this season. Meanwhile, Clemson is working to rebuild and refocus for the future, inspired by the example of players like Mukuba who have represented the program with excellence.
For Swinney, seeing Mukuba succeed at Texas is a reminder of the impact Clemson has had on his development. “We’re proud of the part we played in Andrew’s journey,” Swinney said. “He’ll always be a Tiger at heart, and we’ll always be rooting for him.”
Mukuba’s story is one of resilience, growth, and making the most of every opportunity. As he continues to shine on the national stage, both Texas and Clemson can take pride in the role they’ve played in shaping one of college football’s brightest defensive stars.