We here at Sons of Montezuma are putting into focus our top San Diego State Aztecs football players for you to to know in the upcoming 2025 season. Next up is Safety, Deshawn McCuin.
Name: Deshawn McCuin
Position: Safety
Class: Senior
Height / Weight: 6′0″, 200 lbs
Hometown: Jacksonville, TX
2024 Stats: 28 tackles (19 solo, 9 assisted; ~3.3 tackles/game) 1 sack
Deshawn McCuin returns to San Diego State in 2025 as one of the most experienced and versatile members of the Aztecs’ secondary. A senior from Jacksonville, Texas, and a former TCU transfer, McCuin technically will be coming into his sixth year of eligibility—so being that veteran presence is going to be highly depended on.
He has a physical style of play which will be the theme for a defensive backfield looking to reestablish itself as one of the Mountain West’s toughest units.
McCuin has the range to cover deep ground in the passing game and the toughness to contribute in run support. At 6’0″ and 200 pounds, he possesses the ideal frame for a safety. He’s flexible in both safety roles and can matchup against multiple offensive styles and formations. He finished the 2024 season with 28 tackles and was active around the line of scrimmage not shying away from contact and or stepping into the box when needed.
With playing time in multiple collegiate systems (TCU and SDSU), McCuin has developed strong football IQ and appears to communicate well with teammates, helping younger defensive backs get aligned correctly in pre-snap situations. He has shown the ability to be intuitive in jumping a route, as he did with his first INT as an Aztec that he took back for a pick six back in 2023.
But despite his consistent presence on the field, McCuin didn’t record an interception in 2024. Elevating his ability to create turnovers—whether through picks or forced fumbles—would significantly increase his value in the secondary. And the Aztecs are going to need it.
While generally reliable, McCuin has shown occasional lapses in man-to-man coverage against quicker slot receivers last year. Continued refinement of his footwork and reaction time will be critical against more passing offenses in 2025.
McCuin is expected to be a full-time starter and a vocal leader in the Aztecs’ secondary this fall. He may also take on expanded responsibilities in blitz packages as the Field Warrior, a hybrid linebacker-safety position given the Aztecs continue to run the 4-2-5 defense.
If he can take the next step in terms of playmaking, McCuin has the potential to be one of the more complete safeties in the Mountain West this season. He’ll be instrumental in helping San Diego State’s defense return to form under second-year head coach Sean Lewis.
Stay tuned as we list more crucial Aztec Warriors that will be looking to make a big impact this 2025 season. The list isn’t in any specific order—but let us know in the comments what you think of each player as the list unfolds.
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