4 takeaways from the Cowboys’ second preseason game vs. Chargers
By Mark Heaney
3. Dallas has some young studs at safety.
In 2021, the Cowboys drafted Charlotte, NC, native Israel Mukuamu in the sixth round of the draft. Sixteen months later, that pick seems to be working out pretty well.
Both Mukuamu and undrafted rookie Markquese Bell have shined throughout training camp and again against the Chargers. Bell led the entire defense in tackles, played physically, and used his ridiculous length as a weapon.
Mukuamu, in addition to an interception, showcased tackling and physicality that nobody saw coming when he was a draft prospect. His improvement since college has been a testament to the player development inside the organization.
Mike McCarthy on Israel Mukuamu INT: "He’s just made a huge leap from year one to year two. I’m just so happy to see him have the success. I thought he had some pretty impactful plays today and he’s just getting better each and every opportunity."
— Calvin Watkins (@calvinwatkins) August 21, 2022
Both of these guys should make the roster, and if they do, it could be this game that put them over the top. Both Bell and Mukuamu were in the top three for defensive snaps against LA, further showing the coaching staff really likes both guys.
With veterans like Malik Hooker and Jayron Kearse set to start, the Cowboys may have legitimate talent and depth at the safety position for the first time in years.