5 non-QB draft prospects the Vikings should monitor for 2023
By Dean Jones
Myles Murphy – DE/OLB (Clemson)
The Vikings have high hopes for Danielle Hunter and Za’Darius Smith in 2022. The duo could be among the league’s most formidable pass-rushing tandems providing they stay clear of injury, which would be a significant boost in the team’s pursuit of returning to the playoffs.
With that being said, those in power within the organization might look towards the 2023 draft for a long-term edge defender that can become a start over time. Myles Murphy certainly fits the bill and could enter the top-10 discussion with another standout campaign for the Clemson Tigers next season.
Murphy has everything one looks for in a stud pass-rusher in the NFL. He is explosive, boasts heavy hands, and has the footwork to make life extremely complicated for opposing offensive linemen.
With 25 tackles for loss and 12 sacks over his first two seasons, there should be even more to come from Murphy on a defense that could take the college football world by storm in 2022. If these lofty goals are met, then he will no doubt become a hot commodity during next year’s draft evaluation process.
No team can ever have enough players capable of generating pressure consistently. But much will depend on how the Vikings view what appears to be an outstanding quarterback class.