UCLA Football: Bruins Edge Rusher Selected in Third-Round by AFC North Squad in Fresh Mock Draft

Matt Levine | Apr 8, 2024

As the 2024 NFL Draft process continues, the UCLA Bruins have multiple players who could be selected. Pass rusher Laiatu Latu leads the way for the Bruins, but the 2023 team did have plenty of talented players along the edges.

One in particular is edge rusher and linebacker Gabriel Murphy. Murphy put together a very strong 2023 season, helping the Bruins turn their defense around. He isn't likely to be selected in the first or second round, but could find himself being taken in the middle of the draft.

Vinnie Iyer of Sporting News put together a seven-round mock draft and has the Cleveland Browns selecting Murphy in the third round. Cleveland could use someone like Murphy to help bolster the depth along the defensive front. Iyer has the Browns taking Murphy with pick No. 85.

"The Browns can inject well-needed youthful depth at defensive end with Murphy, who offers a good blend and power quickness to produce."

Last season with the Bruins, Murphy put up 38 total tackles, 16 of them for loss. He also racked up eight sacks and two pass deflections on the year, appearing in 13 games for UCLA.

Murphy has good size and speed to play against both the run and pass, helping whichever team that drafts him out. If he were to end up in Cleveland, he could help them continue their strong defensive front that includes star pass rusher Myles Garrett.

The Bruins' defender would fit in very well with the Browns, making them an ideal landing spot for him. He could come in on day one to compete for a potential starting role, or even go second on a depth chart for next season.