DeSoto Standout Byron Murphy II Selected at No. 16 in NFL Draft

By Joshua Carter Apr 26, 2024 #Byron Murphy II #desoto #Desoto Eagles #DeSoto High School #DeSoto U #NFL Draft #Seattle Seahawks

Image by jwskks5786 from Pixabay

DeSoto High School Alum Byron Murphy II was selected by the Seattle Seahawks in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft Thursday night.

Murphy II, a product of DeSoto, played defensive tackle for the University of Texas at Austin and made a considerable impact during his time with the Longhorns.

The 300-pound lineman led the country in pressure rate among defensive tackles at 12.7% last season.

He also contributed 5.0 sacks and 8.5 tackles for loss in 14 games and had a breakthrough season in 2023 that included garnering first-team all Big 12 honors.

Going into the college football playoffs, Murphy II had the highest quarterback pressure rate for a defensive tackle in the FBS.

The decision by the Seahawks to add Murphey II boasts their defense as Seattle, for the past two seasons, allowed the most rushing yards in the NFL.

DeSoto High School continues to maintain its reputation for producing both exceptional athletic talent and academic achievement.

Led by Coach of the Year Claude Mathis, DeSoto High School remains atop the Texas high school football world, making an emphatic statement, winning its second consecutive state title, defeating Summer Creek 74-14.

By Joshua Carter

Joshua Carter, a Dallas native, is a seasoned journalist with a passion for storytelling. He holds a bachelor's degree in Broadcast and Digital Journalism from the University of North Texas and has previously worked for the Dallas Express. Throughout his career, Joshua has interviewed a diverse range of personalities, from Mark Cuban to Ice Cube, providing unique insights into their lives. With a commitment to excellence, he continues to captivate audiences with his compelling storytelling and insightful interviews.