NFL Mock Draft: Texas standout Byron Murphy II is selected by the Ravens
Under Mike Macdonald, the Baltimore Ravens’ defense was among, if not the greatest in football this season, terrorizing opponents all season long. With Macdonald now bringing his skills to Seattle, Zach Orr will take over as defensive coordinator for the Ravens, and further changes may be in store as two players who are considered elite players—Justin Madubuike and Patrick Queen—are about to reach free agency. However, Texas standout Byron Murphy II is added by the Ravens in the most recent mock draft by CBS Sports, adding another beast to their defensive line. “Players who can collapse the pocket and pressure the QB from the interior are a wonderful thing to have, and Murphy is capable of doing it,” writes CBS Sports. Similar to Jer’Zhan Newton, Murphy’s size may raise some concerns, but he takes advantage of it by gaining leverage. He frequently shoots the gap before his blocker can get a hold of him because of his excellent first step.”
The Ravens are acquiring one of the premier run-stoppers in the draft in Murphy II. In addition, he enjoys going after quarterbacks; he recorded a career-high five sacks and 8.5 tackles for loss. Murphy II is a highly skilled athlete who can disrupt games quickly. The Ravens defensive line would benefit from having him slotted along their defensive line.
Even if he’s still seen as a little raw, Baltimore is the perfect setting for him to polish his skills, and with Orr’s system, he might even succeed. Fans won’t be thrilled if Murphy II is selected, but it would be a wise choice for the Ravens, who are renowned for their excellent defenses, and that could certainly continue with the Texas star to Baltimore.
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