Seahawks: Byron Murphy II draws raving reviews from veteran running mate

Leonard Williams knows a thing or two, so when he speaks we listen.

Cory Kinnan | Jun 26, 2024

Texas defensive lineman Byron Murphy II celebrates after sacking TCU quarterback Josh Hoover last weekend. The Longhorns will need a strong effort by the defense down the stretch Saturday at Iowa State, / Ricardo B. Brazziell/American-Statesman

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Addressing the interior of their defensive line for new head coach and the defensive-minded Mike MacDonald, the Seattle Seahawks used the 16th overall pick on Texas defensive tackle Byron Murphy II. With the opportunity to learn from Leonard Williams, the veteran sees no limit with Murphy II.

With minicamp all wrapped up as we enter the dead period, ESPN's Brady Henderson made a concious effort to single out a quote from Williams about his younger running mate. Taking the opportunity to heap praise onto Murphy, here is what Williams had to say:

"He understands the game already, which is really nice to see. A lot of times you see first-rounders, rookies ... they have all the physical attributes but they still have to kind of learn football a little bit. Whereas he seems like he kind of has that under wraps already. So they did a good job over there at Texas teaching him football. Also, he's just a hard worker. That's the No. 1 compliment I can give somebody is that they work hard."
- Seahawks DT Leonard Williams via ESPN

Seahawks DT Byron Murphy draws praise from Leonard Williams

Nov 11, 2023; Fort Worth, Texas, USA; Texas Longhorns defensive lineman Byron Murphy II (90) celebrates after he sacks TCU Horned Frogs quarterback Josh Hoover (10) during the first half at Amon G. Carter Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports / Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Rookies always face an uphill battle transitioning to the NFL, but they are in complete control of how hard they work. And Murphy II is not taking his opportunity for granted. Don't take my word for it, take Williams'.

He's twitchy, strong, and plays with excellent pad level. With Williams, Dre'Mont Jones, and pass rushers Uchenna Nwosu, Boye Mafe, Darrell Taylor, and Derrick Hall, the Seahawks and MacDonald have a physical and explosive front seven to work with.

A few years from now, it won't be surprising when DT Byron Murphy (NT in this clip) is the best pro from this #Texas defense.

Initial quickness, vertical push, body flexibility. pic.twitter.com/RuvwjgI3zr
— Dane Brugler (@dpbrugler) December 19, 2023