Taiwan Mullen Looks to Become the Leader of the Hoosiers’ Elite Secondary

Image: Courtesy of Indiana University Athletics

Written by Evan Orris

There has been a newfound excitement around the Indiana football program. Taiwan Mullen played a pivotal role in getting them there, but he could improve in all areas in his game especially his leadership.

“Putting the team first is like the most important thing in my eyes,” Mullen said. “And as long as I get my stuff together in the off season, you know getting the guys back together, you know working with them, fixing errors like last season, I could just do a lot better just communicate better, and being more vocal.”

The Hoosiers lost leader Jamar Johnson to the NFL Draft this off-season, but Mullen has taken his leadership role. He has reached his goal of becoming more vocal and even calling their own meetings. He has even been giving tips to the underclassmen.

“Just being more a leader. Being more vocal. Sometimes you can lead by example, but sometimes that’s not good enough,” Mullen said. “You have to let guys know to pick it up, you did a good job, you have to, excuse my language, but you have to rip his ass when it’s time to rip his ass

“Coaches don’t have to be leaders for us no more. Coaches are just extra. They just call play calling. They have guys who they can trust.” The junior added.

Last season, Mullen collected four pass deflections, 3.5 sacks and three interceptions. Which led to him becoming the first Indiana cornerback to earn first-team All-America honors, and the first Hoosier cornerback since 2007 to collect first-team All-Big Ten recognition. But, he has continued to work on his game this off-season. 

The cornerback has been working on not just leadership, but also his body. He worked hard on increasing his body mass, ate four to five times a day (especially chicken alfredo pasta) as well as hydrating and sleeping well.  It has helped him prepare for the physical play of the Big Ten.

“Everybody’s body is changing. You know just playing in the Big Ten you need a strong body, and a fit body to be able to last playing in the Big Ten, they have great teams in our conference, so.” Mullen said.