6’6” – 261 lbs. – 4.90e

STATISTICAL PROFILE:

2009: Redshirt
2010: 2 – 1.0 – 1.0
2011: 40 – 10.0 – 6.5, 1 PD
2012: 56 – 18.0 – 10.0, 6 QBH, 1 FF, 4 PD, 1 INT (TD)

OVERVIEW:

Redshirted in 2009, then appeared in just two games as a redshirt freshman in 2010. Became a full-time starter at outside linebacker in 2011, a role he continued in 2012 en route to being named an All-Pac-12 First Team selection. Was named to every relevant watch list prior to the 2013 season.

STRENGTHS:

•    Massive player with an ideal build for a professional pass rusher.
•    Highly decorated three-year starter with outstanding production.
•    Has rushed out of both two-and-three-point stances in college.
•    Already has some experience dropping into zone coverages.
•    Strong enough to drive defenders back into the passer with bull rush.
•    Possesses adequate initial burst on the snap, average closing burst.
•    Effective at chipping bigger tight ends and preventing easy releases.
•    Can anchor versus offensive tackles and scrape down the line.
•    Capable at setting the edge against outside runs and redirecting runners.

WEAKNESSES:

•    Top-end speed is well below-average, lateral agility is mediocre.
•    Despite experience there, is not an ideal coverage option (zone or man.)
•    Takes some wide angles to the passer, creating big rushing lanes.
•    Not an outstanding run defender, runs himself out of the play at times.
•    Takes plenty of plays off, especially on runs to the opposite side.
•    Lots of his production comes via second effort or when unblocked.
•    Ceiling is limited due to his athletic limitations, starting experience.
•    May be one of those players whose game doesn’t really translate.

SUMMARY:

Murphy is among the most productive pass rushers in the draft, with outstanding size and three years of experience doing pretty much everything 3-4 outside linebackers are asked to do, but his overall movement skills are lacking, which may restrict what he can do at the pro level. His best fit is probably as a strong-side “elephant” linebacker in an odd defensive front. Not as impressive on tape as his statistics suggest. RD 4