Steelers Need To Beat Down 'Anyone In Their Way' To Draft Texas Defensive Lineman Byron Murphy II In Round 1

The Pittsburgh Steelers face a pivotal decision as to what they will do with their 20th pick in the upcoming NFL Draft. With the draft drawing nearer, speculation abounds regarding the team's potential directions. Many anticipate the Steelers targeting an offensive tackle or center in the first round, addressing critical needs in their lineup. However, the pressing need for a wide receiver also looms large and remains a viable option.

Yet, according to CBS Sports NFL Draft analyst Ryan Wilson, a compelling alternative emerged during his appearance on the 93.7 The Fan's Joe Show with host Joe Starkey. Wilson proposed a player whose position may not align with the Steelers' immediate needs but whose talent is too exceptional to overlook if available at the 20th pick. That player, he contends, is Texas defensive lineman Byron Murphy II—a potential game-changer and a prospect too enticing to pass up.

"If he's there at 20? The Steelers should knock over anyone in their way to take him. Is it a glaring need? No, but Cam Heyward's not gonna play forever. Keeanu Benton did a really good job as a rookie last year. The thing with Byron is he weighs about 292 and he played next to T'Vondre Sweat, who weighs 360. They had Byron playing over the center at times last year at Texas, but he'll probably play more likely over the guard or in the A or B gap and be a guy who creates all sorts of problems.”

Wilson highlighted Murphy's tenure with the Longhorns in 2023, noting that he frequently lined up alongside a formidable teammate weighing 360 pounds. This arrangement often placed Murphy in positions over the center. However, Wilson contends that Murphy's optimal performance zone lies in aligning over the guard.

Expanding on his analysis, Wilson illustrated how Murphy's presence could significantly benefit star pass rushers such as Alex Highsmith and TJ Watt. By drawing attention and creating disruptions from the interior, Murphy has the potential to alleviate pressure on the edge rushers, thus enhancing their effectiveness on the field.

"He can consistently win versus double teams. And to your point, if you are collapsing the pocket, it makes things a lot easier for guys named TJ Watt and Alex Highsmith. He's a special player.”

The prospect of Watt and Highsmith enjoying smoother paths to the quarterback should send shivers down the spines of opposing offenses. As one of the most formidable pass-rushing tandems in the NFL, they strike fear into the hearts of their adversaries. Watt, in particular, reigns supreme in sacking the quarterback, leading the league last season with an impressive tally of 19 sacks.

Wilson astutely acknowledges that selecting Murphy wouldn't directly address the Steelers' most glaring roster gap. However, it would serve as a strategic move in preparing for the eventual retirement of stalwart Cam Heyward. Wilson asserts that Murphy's exceptional talent transcends immediate positional needs, making him a compelling prospect worth prioritizing—even at the expense of addressing other roster deficiencies.

Steelers' Defensive Line Would Greatly Improve With Byron Murphy II

While the notion of selecting Murphy might raise concerns among some Steelers fans, given the team's pressing needs at offensive line, center, and wide receiver, it nonetheless promises excitement due to Murphy's exceptional talent. Currently topping Mel Kiper Jr.'s big board as the number one defensive tackle, Murphy's potential impact is undeniable.

Although it's plausible that Murphy could still be available at the 20th pick, recent mock drafts suggest otherwise. In Kiper's latest projection, Murphy is slated to be taken 18th overall by the Steelers' divisional rivals, the Cincinnati Bengals. As anticipation builds, Steelers fans eagerly await updates and analysis regarding the team's strategy for their first-round selection in the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft.