NFL Mock Draft roundup: Chiefs linked to new defensive linemen
By Matt Conner
Myles Murphy, DE, Clemson
Over at Pro Football Focus, the latest mock draft posted finds the Chiefs linked with an edge rusher, which is certainly not surprising to anyone, but the name is new(er)—at least compared with most other mocks that feature the same names again and again. This time, we see Myles Murphy falling to No. 31 and it’s here that fans might want to pray this scenario comes true.
PFF notes that he’s already a strong run defender who never turned in the sort of disruptive numbers that would make him a top 10 pick. However, he’s a big, stout defender who can hold the edge and the potential is certainly there for him to learn greater technique with coaching and experience given his natural athleticism and strength.
Last year, Murphy had 6.5 sacks for the Tigers with 18 in his career over the course of three seasons. The truth is that most incoming pass rushers need time to develop more moves and refine their technique. What makes Murphy such a strong addition for a team like the Chiefs is that he’s absolutely pro-ready as an early down end and would give them a obvious cornerstone opposite George Karlaftis for the next half-decade.
Most mock drafts have Murphy going higher than this, so this scenario feels very desirable for the Chiefs. While he’s not a perfect prospect, he would be a gift of a great player at a point of need without having to move around the draft order.