Welcome to SKOL Search!
This series will be your guide to the 2024 draft class. From scouting reports to mock drafts and exploring different scenarios, we will be covering the NFL draft and the future of the Minnesota Vikings from all angles.
The focus of the draft class in this space will be on the Vikings’ major needs at quarterback, running back, defensive line and edge rusher. We will also focus on wide receiver since it’s a loaded class and an increased chance to get a Stefon Diggs-type steal in the later rounds.
The Vikings are slated to have 9 picks going into the NFL draft and they need to make the most out of them.
Background
Gabriel Murphy
- UCLA
- Transfer from North Texas
- Height-6021
- Weight-249 lbs
- Fifth-year Senior
- 3-Star recruit per 247 Sports
- Stats: 149 tackles, 74 solo, 37.0 tackles for loss, 21.5 sacks, 6 passes defended, 4 forced fumbles, 2 fumble recoveries
- Games watched: Utah 2023, Arizona 2023, Washington State 2023
Strengths
Murphy is an intelligent player and it stands out in the running game. He is incredibly patient when the offense is running the ball, waiting for the blocker to declare if he’s pulling and then taking advantage of his movement by penetrating with an explosive first step.
That quickness was utilized by UCLA frequently. They lined him up not just on the edge but as a standup defender in the box and frequently at 3T. This allowed the Bruins to maximize Murphy’s quickness, as he could torch guards off the ball.
Murphy knows how to win in a variety of ways. Anywhere from around the edge to getting skinny through the B gap and using a Euro step type move, Murphy has a way to get into the backfield.
Weaknesses
Murphy gets into the backfield frequently but isn’t a great finisher.That part of his game will need to see improvements.
Size is a major concern for Murphy. He is 249 lbs but at only 6021 and with 30 6/8″ arms, there are some real concerns with his upside.
Athleticism is questionable on an overall scale. The Bruins used him over guards consistently but struggled at times against tackles. He looks to be stiff in his lower half and his burst against better athletes at tackle is suspect.
Overview
| Bend | 7.2/10 |
| Quickness/Burst | 12.1/15 |
| Finesse | 3.7/5 |
| Power | 3.5/5 |
| Counters | 7.2/10 |
| Awareness | 7.3/10 |
| Run Defense | 7.4/10 |
| Versatility | 6.9/10 |
| Size/Length | 9.1/15 |
| Tackling | 6.8/10 |
| Grade | 71.2/100 Fourth Round |
Murphy is an intriguing player but his lack of high-end athleticism and length will make it difficult to see a high ceiling. Right now, a rotational role paired with being a special teams player is going to encompass likely the entirety of his rookie contract.
