Andrew Mukuba needed four weeks for Vic Fangio to give him his rightful title
From the moment he had his first unofficial pick-six in the preseason game against the Cleveland Browns, Philadelphia Eagles rookie second-round pick safety Andrew Mukuba was always destined to be a potential star in this defense.
He earned that right when he was surprisingly named the starter at the last second over Sydney Brown for the first regular-season game against the Dallas Cowboys. Mukuba and Brown have been splitting time depending on the defensive package through the first three weeks, with Mukuba getting the slight edge. Brown was mostly playing in Base packages.
The separation between Mukuba and Brown started to become noticeable once Mukuba nabbed his first career interception in the Eagles' win over the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 2. Eagles fans knew the inevitable was going to happen.
That moment finally came in the Eagles' 31-25 win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Mukuba had done something he had never done before: played 100% of the defensive snaps in the game. Brown only had one snap on defense.
It wasn't a perfect day at the office for Mukuba as he allowed a long ball touchdown in the second half. Outside of some coverage issues, he played well. He finished with six tackles and one tackle for loss.
Vic Fangio closed the argument between Mukuba and Brown once and for all
Everyone took notice of the snap count between the two safeties, and that led to the media asking Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio about Mukuba's status. It was a quick and easy response from the man, delivered in a few, but concise words.
“Right now he’s playing full-time.”
There it is. The title of "full-time starter" finally goes to Mukuba. Eagles fans have been waiting for Fangio to echo those words for over a month.
Philly's latest excellent rookie defender earned the right to be the full-time starter after four solid games. He's racked up 19 tackles, two tackles for loss, 0.5 sacks, one interception, and one pass deflection.
The doubt is no longer hovering over the secondary. Reed Blankenship has found his running mate for the season with Mukuba. A combination the Eagles hope they have found for a long time in Philly.
'I Feel Like…': Jerry Jones Reveals His True Feelings on Cowboys’ Playoff Chances
Following a dramatic tie against the Green Bay Packers, Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones expressed a surprising sense of optimism regarding his team’s playoff prospects. Despite the team’s mixed performance this season, Jones remains confident in their ability to compete for a postseason spot.
His comments come after a game that showcased both the strengths and weaknesses of the team, leaving fans with mixed emotions. Jones reflected on the game, noting that while a tie is not the desired outcome, it provides a foundation for growth.
Aug 9, 2025; Inglewood, California, USA; Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones watches from the sidelines during the game against the Los Angeles Rams at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
He emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive outlook as Dallas prepares for upcoming challenges. With the team currently sitting at a 1-2-1 record, Jones is aware that improvements are necessary but believes in the potential of his roster to turn things around.
Nov 16, 2024; Fayetteville, Arkansas, USA; Dallas Cowboys owner and member of the 1964 Arkansas Razorbacks National Championship team, Jerry Jones, claps as the team is honored during the first half against the Texas Longhorns at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-Imagn Images
Jones recently shared what he thinks about Dallas’ chances to make the playoffs. This can be seen in an article written by Tommy Yarrish for the Cowboys’ official website.
“I feel like our team can compete…” Jones said. “I certainly do feel like we’re a competing team for the playoffs. At this particular point, with as many games as we’ve got, that’s not necessarily getting out over your ski’s.”
As the Cowboys look ahead to their next opponents, the focus will be on improving their defense and offensive consistency. Jones believes that the return of key players and the emergence of younger talent will bolster the team’s performance. With Prescott leading the charge, the team hopes to harness its offensive capabilities to secure crucial victories.
Aug 16, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones before the game against the Baltimore Ravens at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
Jones’ comments reflect a blend of realism and optimism regarding Dallas’ playoff chances. While the road ahead may be challenging, his confidence in the team’s potential serves as a rallying point for players and fans alike. As the season unfolds, the Cowboys will need to capitalize on this momentum to reestablish themselves as serious contenders.
Nov 24, 2023; Austin, Texas, USA; Jerry Jones on the field at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium before the game between the Texas Longhorns and the Texas Tech Red Raiders. Mandatory Credit: Scott Wachter-USA TODAY Sports
