Clemson Football: Myles Murphy a versatile defensive end

TAMPA, FL - JANUARY 7: Defensive coordinator Brent Venables of the Clemson Tigers speaks to the media during the College Football Playoff National Championship Media Day on January 7, 2017 at Amalie Arena in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Brian Blanco/Getty Images)
TAMPA, FL - JANUARY 7: Defensive coordinator Brent Venables of the Clemson Tigers speaks to the media during the College Football Playoff National Championship Media Day on January 7, 2017 at Amalie Arena in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Brian Blanco/Getty Images)

5-star Clemson football commit Myles Murphy is a versatile defensive end with the talent and ability of coming in and competing for playing time right away.

The 2020 Clemson football recruiting class received a commitment from its fifth 5-star in a row last week when Myles Murphy announced his commitment.

Murphy, a 5-star DE from Powder Springs, GA, chose the Tigers over Auburn at halftime of his high school’s spring game last Friday evening.

Murphy improved Clemson’s lead over LSU and Alabama in the 2020 team rankings. The Tigers now have 16 commitments- after 3-star RB Kobe Pryor committed on Saturday- and have an average of 95.35 in star-rating, according to the 247 Sports’ Composite Team Rankings.

That average of 95.35 is good enough for almost two full points ahead of LSU (93.84), the No. 2 class in the nation. Alabama is ranked No. 3 with an average rating of 92.34.

Here’s a look at what to expect from Murphy when he joins the Clemson football program next season.

Analysis:

Murphy is a versatile defensive end who has the ability to do a little bit of everything. His straight-line speed is good and he has a great blend of power and athleticism to blow past blockers and get in the backfield.

Murphy isn’t a pure pass rusher like Xavier Thomas, but more of a defensive end that can set a hard-edge and rush the passer at the same time. He has a solid technique and is able to use multiple moves to get into the backfield and shed blockers.

He is the No. 2 defensive end in the nation and the No. 1 player from the state of Georgia, according to 247 Sports.

Murphy isn’t just an elite football player, but a perfect fit for the culture of the Clemson football program. He is concerned about much more than football and wants to major in Engineering.

Schedule

Schedule