Broncos' "Mr. Irrelevant" selection is owner of impressive NCAA record originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Denver Broncos had the final pick in the 2026 NFL Draft and since 1976, the final pick in the draft has been celebrated as the "Mr. Irrelevant" pick. Sean Payton indicated that multiple teams inquired about trading for the pick.
While many of these picks have more often than not been easily forgotten, the Broncos may have hit on one this year.
Khalil "Red" Murdock of Buffalo was taken with that final pick and because the Broncos didn't select an inside linebacker earlier in the draft, he was the only player added at what was arguably the team's biggest position of need.
Murdock was one of the most intriguing late-round linebackers in this class. He is a physical player who packs a punch when delivering hits. While he's not the most athletic and can be taken advantage of in coverage, he can be a strong asset against the run and up near the line of scrimmage, as evidenced by the 39.5 tackles for loss he posted in college.
He projects as a two-down linebacker who can be a contributor on special teams to start his career, but perhaps the most interesting fact about Murdock is the FBS record he holds.
Murdock broke Khalil Mack's all-time record last season when he forced the 17th fumble of his career. Coincidentally, Mack also played at Buffalo.
Murdock forces the ball free with his big hits and he has become a bit of a master of the "Peanut Punch", the move made famous by former NFL defensive back Charles Tillman, which is now used by the majority of players at all levels of football.
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The Broncos have added a fiery competitor to their linebacker corps, one who is physical, tough and literally packs a punch. He should be a welcome addition to this team.
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