Seahawks HC Mike Macdonald sings Byron Murphy's praises
When the Seattle Seahawks selected defensive tackle Byron Murphy II No. 16 overall in the 2024 NFL draft, folks in the Pacific Northwest were excited. And with good reason, I might add. Murphy was widely regarded as the best defensive tackle prospect in the draft. For Seattle, the answer to the debate between "draft the best player available" versus "draft for need" was a simple yet resounding "yes" as Murphy fit both descriptions.
So far, it appears he is living up to his top billing.
It seems Murphy has overcame his "slow" start during the first week of training camp and is emerging as a legitimate force along Seattle's defensive line. Head coach Mike Macdonald made no bones about it when he discussed how impressed he was with the first selection in his era with the Seahawks.
"He’s the guy that we thought he was," Macdonald exclaimed. "Let’s not crown him yet, but he’s on the way. He’s a force in there, I think the guys see it. I’m pleased with his effort. The guy brings it every day. He’s a rookie, there’s things that we want to attack, but he’s a savvy football player. He knows what he’s doing out there, he’s not lost, he plays fast, plays rugged. So I think the future is bright for Mr. Murphy."
Anyone who has ever typed a word about the Seahawks in the last two years have written ad nauseam about the weakness along Seattle's defensive line. Teams have been able to run roughshod on the Seahawks for far too long at this point. Adding someone like Murphy to the mix, alongside Leonard Williams, is going to make an impact.
If Macdonald and Murphy are able to get Seattle's defense to even somewhat middle of the pack in the NFL, instead of practically dead last, the Seahawks aren't going to be an easy out for any team in the league.
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This article originally appeared on Seahawks Wire: Seahawks HC Mike Macdonald sings Byron Murphy's praises
