When Red Murdock heard his name called at pick No. 257, he became the final selection of the 2026 NFL Draft—the official Mr. Irrelevant. But don't let the title fool you. This Buffalo linebacker's college résumé screams anything but irrelevant.
The Denver Broncos scooped up Murdock after a record-shattering four-year run with the Bulls. In 2024, he led the FBS with seven forced fumbles and piled up 156 tackles, earning first-team All-MAC honors. He followed that up with another six forced fumbles, 142 tackles, five sacks, and 13.5 tackles for loss in 2025, snagging second-team All-American recognition. Oh, and he graduated magna cum laude with a psychology degree.
Murdock's production even surpassed some marks set by All-Pro Khalil Mack during his Buffalo days. While Mack went in the first round, Murdock waited until the final pick—but he's used to proving doubters wrong. Heisman Finalist Diego Pavia Goes Unpicked in 2026 NFL Draft shows how unpredictable draft day can be, but Murdock's consistency makes him a sleeper to watch.
A Mind for the Game and the Community
Murdock isn't just a tackling machine; he's a leader on and off the field. He was a finalist for the William V. Campbell Trophy—the Academic Heisman—in 2025, thanks to his community service and academic excellence. His football IQ and work ethic caught the eye of Broncos coach Sean Payton, who values versatility and hustle.
While some prospects slide due to injury or poor tape—like Garrett Nussmeier's draft stock cratering—Murdock's stock stayed steady. NFL.com projected him as a sixth-rounder, making his seventh-round selection a potential steal.
Broncos' 2026 Draft Class: Building on a 14-3 Season
Denver added seven rookies this year, aiming to push deeper into the playoffs after a 14-3 campaign that ended just short of the Super Bowl. Here's the full class:
- Round 3, Pick 66: DT Tyler Onyedim (Texas A&M)
- Round 4, Pick 108: RB Jonah Coleman (Washington)
- Round 4, Pick 111: OT Kage Casey (Boise State)
- Round 5, Pick 152: TE Justin Joly (NC State)
- Round 7, Pick 246: S Miles Scott (Illinois)
- Round 7, Pick 256: TE Dallen Bentley (Utah)
- Round 7, Pick 257: LB Red Murdock (Buffalo)
Murdock joins a defense that already boasts young talent. If he brings his relentless tackling to training camp, he could carve out a role on special teams and as a rotational linebacker. Garrett Nussmeier's Draft Freefall Ends at No. 249: A Blessing in Disguise? reminds us that late-round picks often become key contributors.
What's Next for Mr. Irrelevant?
Murdock's journey from Buffalo to Denver is a testament to perseverance. He'll wear the Mr. Irrelevant crown with pride, but his goal is to make it irrelevant by earning a roster spot. With his production, smarts, and drive, don't bet against him.
