Murphy is primed for a breakout sophomore campaign.
In 2024, the Cincinnati Bengals had the 28th overall selection in the draft. Picking that low with a good roster in tow, they didn’t have to worry about an immediate need or a Day 1 starter.
Instead, they took a high-potential player at a premium position.
Former Clemson Tigers standout and current Bengal tiger Myles Murphy has all the makings of an elite defensive end.
Myles Murphy
- Height: 6-foot-5
- Weight: 270 pounds
- Age: 22
- College: Clemson
- Hometown: Hillgrove, GA
- Experience: 1 year
Cap Status:
Murphy is entering the second year of his rookie deal. His contract will earn him a total of $12,587,262 over four years. His 2024 cap hit is a mere $2,860,741. Since he was a first round pick, the Bengals could pick up his fifth-year option, putting him under team control until 2028.
Background:
As a college prospect, Murphy looked like a great fit for the Bengals. He was tall and long and did a great job of holding the edge against the run. Although he has the physical tools, he was not a particularly impressive pass-rusher at Clemson. It was assumed that he would come in on running downs to spell Trey Hendrickson and that the defensive line coach Marion Hobby would work to develop him as a pass-rusher.
However, in his rookie campaign, Murphy flipped the script. He was very effective as a pass-rusher, totaling three sacks in a limited number of pass-rush snaps. He struggled a bit against the run and looked like a player who could use an offseason in an NFL weight room.
Outlook on the 2024 season and Beyond:
Murphy flashed his pass-rush potential in his rookie season, and it was a sight to behold. By which, of course, I mean, the only way he’s not getting to the quarterback is if the offense be-holding him. Murphy is reportedly having a great offseason and adding the muscular strength needed to be a stout run defender in the AFC North.
Expect Murphy to move into a more prominent role in the Bengals’ defense in 2024. He probably won’t break into double digits for sacks just yet but expect eight or nine. In 2025, he will transition to a starting role and establish himself as a dominant force with ten to twelve sacks.
Murphy is the keystone of the Bengals’ future pass rush. He will play a vital role in this team’s continued success and ability to compete for a title year in and year out.
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