DomeHawk":2xcdiaz2 said:
"The Washington star didn't post an impressive 40 time (4.55), but he might've exhibited the best footwork and technique of any defensive back in the building. Murphy is smooth and fluid as a turner, and looks like an MLB center fielder in action.
I referenced this months ago. His time was about what I figured it'd be. He is not a great twitch type athlete like Earl was. Murphy's success comes via other traits. He looked exceptional in movement drills and catching drills. Probably top 5 in catching the ball for all DBs and WRs combined. Looked even better (a lot better) than I thought he would in that regard. And I expected he would do well.
The straight line speed will limit him. But his awareness/anticipation and ability to make plays on the ball will be what keeps him in the league.
It's hard to see us taking a FS convert project in the first round. And this class is far too deep in day two and three candidates for us to take him in the top 40 overall as is. However, it'll be interesting to see him run at his pro day. Earl Thomas clocked a mediocre 4.49 at his combine which was basically identical to Murphy. Then Earl ran a 4.37 at Texas' pro day. If Murphy can demonstrate a significant alternative time at his pro day, he could rekindle some consideration.
In my view, Seattle has unspoken desperate need at FS. I am familiar with Pete's public stance to the contrary. But Pete also has a subtle history of tipping his hand as far as his true convictions in this regard. The oddly out of place, over the top endorsements of Tedric Thompson despite the horror show of big plays surrendered, coupled with the virtual desert of plays on the ball -- strikes me as Nowakish. It just felt forced, unsolicited, contrived and contrary to what we saw with our own eyes. As if he were trying to convince us to pay no attention to the man behind the curtain of woeful failure.
