Byron

Murphy Jr.

The Vikings are fairly banged up in the secondary, which could become an issue considering their elevated blitz rates and varied coverage schemes, the latter of which requires elite-level communication to be effective. The Packers are also missing two primary wide receivers for the must-win NFC North showdown.

Murphy was one of the top corners on the market during this year’s free agent cycle, and he’ll now head to Minnesota to take the place of recent departure Patrick Peterson. The Vikings are in the midst of a massive overhaul on the defensive side of the ball, but Murphy is a step in the right direction as the team searches for a new identity. Murphy’s coverage grades are down over the previous two seasons but the aggressive corner is still highly capable given the right defensive scheme.

The No. 33 overall pick of the 2019 Draft, Murphy was a key component of a surprisingly feisty Cardinals pass defense last season. Although Murphy has never emerged as a true shutdown corner, he was allowed to shadow at times in 2022. Murphy is the right age with a long enough resume to cash in at one of football’s premium positions.

Kliff Kingsbury gave a two-word response when asked if DB Byron Murphy would play in Week 14 - “probably not.” The likely absence will mark his fourth consecutive missed game, leaving Antonio Hamilton the beneficiary for snaps in the secondary.

Murphy has largely erased opposing top wide receivers this season, making his absence a substantial boost to both Deebo Samuel and Brandon Aiyuk’s fantasy expectation for Monday Night Football from Mexico City. Murphy will now set his sights on returning to health in time for Week 12 against the Chargers.

Murphy was added to the injury report with a foot issue on Friday. Late-week adds are always a concern, and the limited designation suggests he suffered the issue in practice. Murphy sitting would be a blow to a strong pass defense.

Devon Kennard and Murphy were the two players who tested positive after returning from Arizona’s bye week. The Cardinals’ facilities have since been shut down until all protocols are met. Murphy is likely out for Sunday against the Dolphins, pinning Kevin Peterson for extended reps off the bench in Week 9.

With Patrick Peterson serving a six-game PED suspension to begin the year, the Cardinals will need a starter opposite Robert Alford. Following David Amerson’s release, that spot will likely come down to either Murphy or Tramaine Brock. Murphy received a vote of confidence from Peterson, who complimented the rookie’s confidence and football IQ. “I’m very, very impressed with his checks, with his calls,” said the veteran. “He’s confident with his checks and calls and when you have a rookie calling it out like that, I mean the sky is the limit.” A first-team All-Pac 12 selection during his time at Washington, the 21-year-old Scottsdale native could be an immediate difference-maker in Arizona’s secondary.

Murphy (5’11/190) turned pro as a redshirt sophomore after making 20 starts for the Huskies, earning second-team All-American in 2018 with four interceptions, 13 pass breakups, and a minuscule 54.5 passer rating allowed when targeted (PFF). Although he lacks top-end athleticism — he tested in the 33rd percentile and ran 4.55 in Indy — Murphy compensates with toughness, instincts, and short-area quickness. Ultimately, Murphy’s best position may be slot corner in the Desmond King mold.

Murphy (5’11/190) turned pro as a redshirt sophomore after making 20 starts for the Huskies, earning second-team All-American in 2018 with four interceptions, 13 pass breakups, and a minuscule 54.5 passer rating allowed when targeted (PFF). Although Murphy lacks top-end athleticism – he tested in the 33rd percentile and ran 4.55 in Indy – Murphy compensates with toughness, instincts, and short-area quickness. Ultimately, Murphy’s best position may be slot corner in the Desmond King mold.