When you're the final pick in the NFL draft, you earn the unofficial title of "Mr. Irrelevant." But don't let that nickname fool you—Denver Broncos linebacker Red Murdock was anything but irrelevant during his college career at Buffalo.
Selected with the last pick of the 2026 NFL draft, the 6-foot-1, 232-pound Murdock brings a truly historic credential to Denver. He holds the NCAA record for most career forced fumbles with 17, surpassing the previous mark of 16 set by NFL star Khalil Mack. That's the kind of stat that makes you sit up and take notice.
"Meticulous intent and being kind of obsessed with it," Murdock explained during a post-draft conference call when asked about his knack for stripping the ball. "Now I'm just ready to go do that on the field and help us get some wins."
His senior season in 2025 was particularly impressive. Murdock forced six fumbles while racking up 142 tackles, earning him second-team All-American honors and a first-team All-MAC selection. Those numbers don't lie—this is a player who lives in the opponent's backfield.
Broncos general manager George Paton didn't hold back his enthusiasm after the draft. "Murdock, just man, he's a tackling machine," Paton said. "Just really instinctive. Really good against the run. He may hold the record for forced fumbles... Just a nose for the ball, relentless motor. Think he could be a good special teamer. Great makeup."
While seventh-round picks face an uphill battle to make the active roster, Murdock has already made a strong impression on Denver's front office. His ability to contribute immediately on special teams gives him an edge, and he'll compete for rotational snaps at linebacker this summer. For a player once labeled "Mr. Irrelevant," Red Murdock is proving to be a very relevant name to watch.
