2015 NFL Draft: Marcus Murphy Scouting Report

Dec 6, 2014; Atlanta, GA, USA; Missouri Tigers running back Marcus Murphy (6) runs the ball as Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Trey DePriest (33) defends during the second quarter of the 2014 SEC Championship Game at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

Marcus Murphy, Running Back, Missouri

Year: Senior Height: 5’8” Weight: 188 lbs

Marcus Murphy is a ball of energy. He is quick and elusive and get inject tons of energy into a game with his big play potential. Murphy is nowhere close to being an every down back, but his versatility could prove valuable to team in the future.

Strengths: As soon as you turn the tape on, Murphy’s explosiveness jumps out at you. He had plenty of electrifying returns in his college career and he always displayed his ability to see the field when he was returning. Murphy has a nose for finding the right cut back lanes on returns, coupled with his elusiveness and cut back ability; its no wonder Murphy was a great return during his tenure as a tiger. Murphy was a solid receiver coming out of the slot and he was able to make some nice plays as a receiver. While he is one of the smaller guys, he is very feisty and didn’t avoid contact and he also showed fairly solid ball security.

Weaknesses: Murphy runs with a high center of gravity, which is never the best thing to see when scouting running backs. He does not run the cleanest routes either, preventing him from reaching his full potential as a receiver. Murphy tries his best to block, but due to his size, usually he simply gets run over. He suffered a shoulder injury, which held him out of the 2011 season. His size is also a negative. He doesn’t project to being able to carry the load at the next level, making him a situational player.

Awards and Highlights: 2013 All-SEC Second Team, 2012 All-America Second, Team Return Specialist, 2012 All-SEC First Team Return Specialist, 2012 Team Special Teams Player of the Year

Pro Comparison: Dexter McCluster

Draft Outlook: Due to his limitations, Murphy will most likely fall until late Day 3. He is purely a change of pace back and he has the potential to be a teams primary return guy.