Going into 2024 there was much speculation as to which direction the Seattle Seahawks would go with the 16 overall pick. After some maneuvering and unexpected moves in front of them, the Seattle Seahawks made their first pick in the John Schneider and Mike Macdonald era. The team’s pick was former Texas defensive tackle Bryon Murphy II.
A true defensive player who had three solid years at the University of Texas and improved each year. In 2021, Murphy played in 12 games, starting one, and recorded 15 tackles, 3.5 TFL with 2. o sacks. In 2022, Murphy had one start, played n 13 games, nearly doubling his tackles numbers with 26, and recorded 3 TFL and one sack. Last year Murphy had a breakout year that sent him to the NFL.
BREAK OUT YEAR
In 2023 Murphy started all 14 games and recorded 29 tackles, 8. 5 TFL, and five sacks. For his outstanding and dominant effort, Murphy was named Big 12 Conference Defensive Lineman of the Year, Second-team Associated Press All–American, and All-Big 12 team
According to some draft experts, Murphy’s downside is his size if you can believe that. It’s hard to imagine a player six foot tall, weighing 279 pounds with a 40-yard dash speed of 4.87 seconds and a vertical jump of 33 inches as having size issues. Those in the game believe Murphy is a sure thing as there is. Asked about his size during a conference call with Seattle media Murphy pointed out that he learned to compensate by having stellar technique in his game and an unmatched attitude.
“My dog mentality. It comes from having doubters. I’ve been doubted all my life. I feel like that’s what started the dog mentality. My mentality when I’m out there on the field is to kill. I don’t care who’s in front of me or what they say about you, said Murphy. “I believe you have to show yourself. Also part of my mindset is you won’t stop me. You have to show me that you can stop me. Even if you know what I’m doing on this play, you still have to show me because I’m coming. And I’m coming hard every play.”
VERSATILITY AND DEPTH
The drafting of Murphy gives Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald versatility and depth on the defensive line The Seahawks recently signed Leonard Williams to a three-year 64.5 million dollar contract.
“I mean, he’s so talented. Versatility along the front plays such an aggressive player plays violently, said Macdonald. “ Heavy hands for a guy like shorter stature, flexible. pass rush, flexibility, you name it, but yeah, just excited to have him.”
According to Schneider the Seahawks had four opportunities to make a trade and decided to stay the course and stick to the best player available for their system.
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