Byron Murphy shares why he should be the first defensive lineman drafted

Texas defensive tackle Byron Murphy was one of the most menacing defensive linemen in college football last season, and will now look to have that same impact at the next level ahead of the 2024 NFL Draft.

Murphy is regarded as one of the best defensive line prospects ahead of this year’s draft, with ESPN NFL Draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. projecting him to be the second defensive lineman selected in his latest mock draft with the No. 13 overall pick by the Las Vegas Raiders. But at the NFL Combine, Murphy answered why he should be the very first defensive lineman selected in the upcoming draft in April.

“I feel like I should be the first one because I’m all about ball, I’m all about my business,” Murphy said. “I’m a guy that’s going to come in, give it my all every day. I’m going to give 110% of my commitment to the team or organization wherever team I go to.”

There’s no question Murphy has the size to be dominant at the next level standing at 6-foot-1, 308 pounds. Taking home the Big 12 Defensive Lineman of the Year Award last season along with second-team All-American and first-team All-Big 12 honors.

Murphy’s recorded over 20 tackles in the past two seasons for the Longhorns from his spot on the interior of the defensive line, ending last season with 8.5 tackles for loss and 5.0 sacks. He also played a role on Texas’ goal line package clearing the way for running backs and recording a one-yard rushing touchdown and receiving touchdown apiece.

His play on the field speaks for itself, but Murphy believes his intangibles are what really make him worthy of being the first defensive lineman off the board.

“I feel like I’m a guy that you can rely on. You don’t have to worry about me, I also take care of my business on and off the field. I stay out of trouble and also I’m a great person, I’m a great teammate. I like to try to better guys around me as well. I try to be a great role model and lead in the right way,” Murphy concluded.

Murphy will look to impress evaluators at the NFL Combine in Indianapolis on Thursday among the rest of this year’s top defensive line prospects. He has a great opportunity to raise his draft stock and chances of being the first defensive lineman selected when the draft kicks off on April 25 in Detroit.