The NFL delivered an exciting installment of the 2026 NFL Draft as the city of Pittsburgh hosted this year’s event. Teams made memorable selections, executed blockbuster trades, and created standout moments throughout the draft.
One of the league’s most enduring traditions also returned: the final pick of the draft, known as “Mr. Irrelevant.” Former NFL player Paul Salata coined the title in 1976.
Salata created the tradition in Newport Beach, California, to celebrate the draft’s final pick as an underdog rather than dismiss it as a meaningless selection. This year, Mr. Irrelevant came with the 257th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
MORE: LSU QB Garrett Nussmeier’s NFL Draft nightmare gets dream ending
During his four years at Buffalo, Red Murdock recorded nine sacks, 39 tackles for loss, one interception, and 364 total tackles.
The Denver Broncos selected Murdock, a linebacker out of Buffalo, making him the 51st Mr. Irrelevant. He played all four years in the MAC.
Murdock now joins a unique and storied group. Like many before him, he will have the opportunity to carve out his own place in NFL history.
While the title may suggest otherwise, several Mr. Irrelevant selections have made significant impacts in the league. Some have even reached the Super Bowl.
MORE: Sean McVay pours cold water on NFL Draft rumors about Ty Simpson displeasure
Notable examples include former Kansas City Chiefs kicker Ryan Succop, who has played more games than any other Mr. Irrelevant. Quarterback Brock Purdy remains the most recognizable recent example after going last overall in the 2022 NFL Draft.
Purdy built a successful career with the San Francisco 49ers, leading the team to the Super Bowl in 2023. He sparked a late-season surge during his rookie year that carried into the NFC Championship, stepping up after multiple injuries forced the 49ers to rely on him down the stretch.
Murdock will travel to California for the annual Mr. Irrelevant celebration, where he will meet Salata’s family and connect with other title holders.
Now the question remains: Can Murdock become the next great Mr. Irrelevant success story?