RAV KCC ATL HOU DEN NWE LVR CRD MIN SDG CLE CIN LV BOS TB STL NO WSH ARI PHO PIT CAR JAC MIA CHI CLV CHR W 40x40 ARZ LA TBB RAI RAV KCC ATL HOU DEN NWE LVR CRD MIN SDG CLE CIN LV BOS TB STL NO WSH ARI PHO PIT CAR JAC MIA CHI CLV CHR W 40x40 ARZ LA TBB RAI

Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Eric Murray (Minnesota) - 2016 NFL Draft Pick #106 by KC

What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Pre-Draft Analysis for Eric Murray - 2016 NFL Draft

College: University of Minnesota
Position: Cornerback
Height: 5'11"
Weight: 201 lbs

Overview:

Eric Murray was known for his versatility and strong performance as a cornerback at the University of Minnesota. He had a productive college career, showcasing the ability to contribute in multiple defensive schemes.

Strengths:

  • Physicality: Murray displayed a strong physical presence, effectively jamming receivers at the line of scrimmage.
  • Coverage Skills: Possesses solid ball skills and has shown the ability to make plays on the ball, including interceptions and pass deflections.
  • Football IQ: Demonstrated a good understanding of offensive schemes, allowing him to anticipate routes and make smart decisions.
  • Versatility: Played both outside and in the nickel, showcasing adaptability to different defensive roles.
  • Work Ethic: Known for his dedication to the game and willingness to improve, making him a coachable player.

Weaknesses:

  • Size Concerns: At 5'11", he may be viewed as undersized for an NFL cornerback, which could lead to mismatches against taller receivers.
  • Speed: While he has decent speed, he may struggle against elite receivers with top-end acceleration and long-speed.
  • Consistency: At times, his technique can be inconsistent, leading to occasional big plays allowed.

Projection:

Eric Murray was projected to be a mid-round pick in the 2016 NFL Draft. Teams looking for depth in their secondary and a player who could contribute on special teams would find him attractive. His versatility to play multiple positions in the secondary could enhance his draft stock, making him a valuable asset for teams looking to bolster their defensive backfield.

Conclusion:

Murray's combination of physicality, coverage skills, and football intelligence made him a solid prospect heading into the 2016 NFL Draft. While there were concerns regarding his size and consistency, his potential to develop into a reliable cornerback or nickelback made him a player to watch as the draft approached.