Shadwel Nkuba II, CB, Illinois State | 2026 NFL Draft Prospect Zoom Interview
Shadwel Nkuba II was one of the most impactful players during the 2025 season, making an immediate statement after transferring to Illinois State. He earned All-MVFC First Team honors and multiple FCS All-American honors, playing a central role in Illinois State’s best season since 2014 and a dramatic run to the national championship game. Nkuba opened the year with interceptions in four consecutive games and finished with 79 total tackles, five interceptions, and eight pass breakups, production that placed him among the most dominant defensive backs in the FCS. One of his signature performances came in an overtime win against North Alabama, where he recorded 10 tackles, a sack, and an interception, earning MVFC Newcomer of the Week honors and further establishing his reputation as a game-changing player.
On film, Nkuba stands out for his energy, competitiveness, and never-quit mentality, pairing high-end production with sharp instincts and physical play. He is a fast, explosive corner with great vision, anticipation, and poise, consistently playing with good pad level and impacting both the run and pass through discipline and physicality. His ball skills and awareness are evident, along with his reliability as a sound tackler. A vocal leader in the secondary with proven mental toughness, Nkuba also adds value as a special teams contributor, enhancing his appeal to scouts. With his stellar performance this past season and a complete, competitive skill set, Shadwel Nkuba II firmly positions himself as one of the top FCS cornerback prospects in the country.
Content Creator & Senior Writer for NFL Draft Diamonds. Independent Scouting Consultant.
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