Byron Murphy has been selected by the Seahawks with the 16th pick overall in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft. The menacing defensive tackle from Texas is about to give headaches twice a year for Brock Purdy, Matthew Stafford, and Kyler Murray.

At 6’1’’ and 297 pounds, Murphy has a high motor and ability to disrupt the pocket on the interior defensive line. In 14 games, he had 29 tackles with 8.5 tackles for loss and 5 sacks. Lance Zierlein has compared Murphy to Ed Oliver. Zierlein noted in a scouting report on Murphy that his strength lies in his compact frame while delivering an elite combination of strength and flexibility. With a lack of size compared to same positioned peers, the main adjustment to monitor in transitioning to the NFL will be the way Byron Murphy navigates the different looks opposing offensive lineman throw his way.

Overall, the Seahawks are getting who some believe is the best defensive tackle in the class. Starting in 2024, Byron Murphy will get his chance to prove if the Seahawks made the correct pick.