Why the Broncos drafted Buffalo LB Red Murdock

Sep 21, 2024; DeKalb, Illinois, USA; Northern Illinois Huskies quarterback Ethan Hampton (2) rushes the ball against Buffalo Bulls linebacker Red Murdock (2) during the first half at Huskie Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Dinovo-Imagn Images | Mike Dinovo-Imagn Images

With the final pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, the Denver Broncos selected Buffalo linebacker Red Murdock. Murdock is Mr. Irrelevant, but he’s anything but irrelevant.

Murdock is a 6-2, 233-pound linebacker who is known for his big hits and causing turnovers. In three seasons, he forced an impressive 17 forced fumbles and was a tackling machine for Buffalo. He has a nose for the ball, a knack for causing turnovers, and is a physical player who will hit you hard.

The Athletic’s draft analyst, Dane Brugler, had a 4th-5th round grade on Murdock and had him ranked as his 12th-best linebacker in this class. He calls Murdock a magnet to the football and plays with a physicality that will get the job done in the NFL.

No need to know his number when watching film — Murdock is the guy always around the ball. He is still developing his instincts but drives on the football with a determined, attacking mindset to get through traffic. He does a nice job finding his balance as a one-on-one tackler without stopping his feet, which allows him to explode into ball carriers. Murdock is inconsistent as a space player, but he is a magnet to the football and plays with a physicality that will get the job done in the NFL. There is a place in the league for his competitive toughness and playmaking ability.

Murdock was one of the last prospect profiles I did before the draft, and I came out of that liking a lot more than I did coming in. He isn’t great in space or in coverage, that’s not his game, but he’s a physical downhill linebacker who can make some noise in the run game.