Seattle Seahawks fans, get ready—defensive tackle Byron Murphy II is on the verge of something special. After a rookie season hampered by injury, Murphy bounced back in a big way as a sophomore, and all signs point to an even brighter future in 2026.

Murphy's 2025 campaign was nothing short of impressive. He racked up 62 pressures and 11 sacks, including 4.0 sacks during the playoffs, helping lead the Seahawks to a Super Bowl victory. According to Pro Football Focus, he ranked sixth among all defensive tackles in pressures—right behind elite names like Zach Allen, Kobie Turner, teammate Leonard Williams, Jeffery Simmons, and Chris Jones. That's the kind of company that separates good players from great ones.

The secret to Murphy's rise? Continuity. Heading into his third season in Mike Macdonald's defensive system, he'll benefit from familiar faces around him. Alongside veterans Leonard Williams and Jarran Reed on the interior, and with edge rushers Uchenna Nwosu, DeMarcus Lawrence, and Derick Hall returning, Murphy has a solid foundation. The only notable change is the addition of Dante Fowler Jr., who replaces Boye Mafe—a move that should keep the defensive line humming.

Murphy has already established himself as a budding superstar. Now, with a full offseason to build on his momentum, he's poised to join the top tier of NFL defensive tackles alongside Williams, Simmons, and Jones. For Seahawks fans and fantasy football enthusiasts alike, 2026 could be the year Murphy truly takes flight.