DALLAS — Texas Longhorns defensive lineman and North Texas native Byron Murphy II was selected No. 16 overall by the Seattle Seahawks in the 2024 NFL Draft.
Murphy was among the top rated defensive lineman in the 2024 class, with a unique combination of strength and quickness. Murphy was the second defensive player taken in the draft, one pick after edge rusher Laiatu Latu from UCLA.
"Muscular ball of explosiveness with the tools and talent to become a productive three-down defender in the right scheme. Twitchy first-step quickness combined with flexion and power in his lower half create a recipe for disruption as a gap shooter or as a pass rusher," NFL.com analyst Lance Zierlein said. "Murphy is powerful and well-schooled at taking on double-teams but lacks ideal mass and length for that role long-term. He’s successful at bypassing protection with sudden hands and quick feet, while his motor and passion create an activity level coaches will love. Forget the average physical traits and modest production and focus on his competitive spirit and disruptive qualities. Murphy is ascending and could become a successful nose tackle or 3-technique in an even front."
Murphy was surrounded by friends and family at The Statler in Dallas as his name was called by NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell.
Who is Byron Murphy II? Where is he from?
Murphy played three seasons at the University of Texas after leading Dallas-based DeSoto High School's defense as an all-state defensive lineman.
Murphy was named a 2023 second-team All-American by the Associated Press, the 2023 Big 12 Defensive Lineman of the Year and a first-team All-Big 12 selection in 2023. His junior season, Murphy logged 29 tackles, five sacks and even scored two touchdowns as part of a "jumbo package," including a rushing touchdown against Washington in the College Football Playoff.
Byron Murphy II NFL Draft Profile
- Compact frame carries outstanding lean muscle.
- Uses twitchy, controlled bursts to light up gaps and disrupt play development.
- Elite combination of strength, balance and flexible power in his lower half.
- Quick-strike hands help to maneuver around blocks and chase play development.
- Pass rush driven by relentless energy and exemplary edge-to-edge quickness.
- Variety of rush approaches are peppered with fluid transitions and counters.
- Frame might be close to maxed out.
- Can be swallowed by size if he doesn’t keep it moving.
- Lack of arm length forces him to work harder to separate.
- Could be worn down by NFL double-teams and size.
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