Texas defensive tackle Byron Murphy II is a candidate to be the first interior lineman drafted. Murphy is in contention for those bragging rights with Illinois' Johnny Newton.
Murphy enjoyed an outstanding 2023 campaign. He recorded a career-high 5.0 sacks. The DeSoto, Texas native helped the program advance to the College Football Playoff. Murphy was a key cog on an outstanding team.
Murphy possesses an explosive first step, which allows him to be an extremely disruptive interior defensive lineman. Murphy consistently stresses opposing backfields by making plays behind the line of scrimmage. He's equally as effective as a pass rusher and run-stopper. We've identified three ideal team fits for Murphy in the 2024 NFL Draft.
MIAMI DOLPHINS
The Dolphins couldn't afford to retain Christian Wilkins in free agency. Wilkins cashed in by signing a massive four-year, $110 million contract with the Las Vegas Raiders. His departure creates a sizable hole up the middle of Miami's defense, one that is now being overseen by new defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver.
Wilkins recorded career highs in sacks (9.0) and pressures (58) last season according to Pro Football Focus. The Dolphins’ defense is at its most productive when a 3-tech like Wilkins is taking the pressure off edge rushers Jaelan Phillips and Bradley Chubb. Andrew Van Ginkel, another effective pass rusher, was also lost to free agency.
General manager Chris Grier requires young defensive talent on cost-controlled contracts. With so many big-money deals on the books, the Dolphins must draft well to extend their competitive window. Murphy would be a great replacement for Wilkins.
CINCINNATI BENGALS
It's no longer a guarantee that the Bengals will draft an offensive lineman or wide receiver with the No. 18 overall pick. Trade talks surrounding disgruntled wide receiver Tee Higgins have cooled, and Duke Tobin signed Trent Brown to replace Jonah Williams at right tackle. The Bengals are in a better position to go best player available while still addressing a need.
D.J. Reader joined the Detroit Lions in free agency. Reader had been the unsung hero of the Bengals' defensive front since 2020. Sheldon Rankins was signed as a part-time solution. Murphy possesses a different skill set, but his versatile ability to maintain effectiveness on all three downs no matter the situation would slot in nicely as a long-term building block.
BUFFALO BILLS
Most expect the Bills to draft a wide receiver or a cornerback at No. 28, but defensive tackle is arguably a bigger need. While the Bills re-signed veteran run-stopper DaQuan Jones and Ed Oliver is still present, head coach Sean McDermott prefers to rotate bodies across the defensive line and there's essentially nothing behind Jones and Oliver.
The Bills flirted with Arik Armstead and other defensive linemen throughout the first wave of free agency. Bills general manager Brandon Beane believes in building his roster from the inside out by prioritizing the trenches. Pairing Murphy with Oliver on passing downs would terrorize opposing quarterbacks. That’s key to slowing down Patrick Mahomes in the postseason.
