Minnesota Vikings Are Interested in the 21.5-sack pass-rusher
According to an NFL Network report by Mike Garafolo, UCLA pass-rusher Gabriel Murphy is visiting the Minnesota Vikings ahead of the NFL Draft.
Murphy just had one of his best seasons as a college player, recording a career-high eight sacks, 38 total tackles, and two pass breakups.
Murphy may be a day three prospect, as Garafolo notes, but he may be a major asset to Minnesota’s front seven, particularly in light of Danielle Hunter’s free agency departure.
According to ESPN, the Vikings’ pass-rush win percentage from the previous season was 40%, which placed them 18th in the NFL. Despite this, they only added 43 sacks, which was the 19th highest in the league.
It wouldn’t be shocking in the slightest for Minnesota to try to improve their pass rush in the NFL Draft.
Murphy, Gabriel Scouting Report for the NFL Draft
Murphy recorded 21.5 sacks with 149 total tackles, four forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, and six pass breakups during his five seasons at UCLA.
Lance Zierlein of NFL Media characterizes Murphy as “short-armed.” Which will undoubtedly bother professional teams, but his quick reflexes and deft handling tend to allay worries. He moves his feet and hands in unison to avoid blockers, much like a devious runner dodging tackles.
Murphy could find it difficult to hold on when run blockers square up to him, but he usually manages to scuttle out of sustain attempts on the
university level
Reasons Minnesota Vikings Might Consider Murphy
Hunter’s loss will be felt more keenly in Minnesota because to the summer additions of Blake Cashman and Jonathan Greenard at linebacker; nonetheless, Murphy might be a perfect rotational pass-rusher who might make an instant impact.
Murphy, according to Pro Football Focus, increased his number of quarterback pressures by 40 in the 2023 season and achieved an exceptional 87.6 pass-rush rating from the outlet. He also had an 18.4 pass-rush win rate, placing him among the top edge rushers in this year’s draft class.
Matt Lombardo may be followed on Threads at @MattLombardoNFL. Click here to read more of our articles, including in-depth coverage of the NFL.
Sports Marketing at Mayfield
To arrange for Green Bay Packers players or alumni to make a business appearance or promote a product, contact Mayfield Sports Marketing at 262-366-8188. Our booking representatives will negotiate the best pricing for your preferred sports speaker on your behalf. Top sportsmen are known to be reserved for speaking engagements at trade exhibitions and events by Mayfield Sports Marketing. Call us now to find out more about booking fees and appearance fees for Packers players or alumni.
