Back in June and again in August we wrote that Clemson football defensive linemen Bryan Bresee and Myles Murphy were likely going to be first-round draft picks in the 2023 NFL Draft.
After an up-and-down season from Murphy and a tough season all around from Bresee, that still appears to be the case, at least according to ESPN.
Murphy has played in all 13 games, recorded 40 total tackles, 11 tackles for loss (-42 yards), 6.5 sacks (-33 yards), 2 passes broken up, 5 quarterback hurries and a forced fumble.
Bresee has missed time due to injury and the death of his younger sister Ella, has played in 9 games and recorded 13 total tackles, with 4.5 tackles for loss (-18 yards), 2.5 sacks (-15 yards), 2 passes broken up and 3 quarterback hurries.
Perhaps too much was expected of Murphy and he seemed to disappear for long stretches while appearing dominant at other times.
It’s believed both Murphy and Bresee will be top 15 draft picks come April, according to Todd McShay.
"Texas Tech’s Wilson and Clemson’s Murphy should be top-15 picks, and Clemson defensive tackle Bryan Bresee is likely to join them. All three are currently ranked in my top 10."
The NFL draft stock doesn’t necessarily draft on production when you have the obvious talent and skill that Murphy has and where Clemson fans may be disappointed about his consistency, it appears the NFL has no such qualms.
"Murphy has a similar frame (6-5, 275 pounds) and displays a quick first step and impressive bend, helping him to 6.5 sacks and 12 tackles for loss in 2022."
Bresee on the other hand plays a position that doesn’t always rack up a lot of stats, but he was very disruptive in the middle of the line for Clemson when he was in the lineup and apparently the evaluators see the same things I did, namely a strong, dominant run defender.
"Bresee, meanwhile, is a 6-5, 305-pound defensive tackle who has more upside than his Tigers teammate. He’s a dominant run defender, thanks to great upper-body strength and quick hands."
Clemson football players Myles Murphy and Bryan Bresee are in for huge paydays
The contract for the 15th pick in the 2023 NFL Draft is expected to be in the $16,000,000 range and of course gets higher for higher picks.
Given the odds of injuries, as evidenced by Bresee’s history, there’s no reason to return for next season with life changing money assured.
Murphy’s spotty production aside, the Tig
ers are going to miss these two next season as they rebuild their defensive line.
The defensive line part of the Class of 2023 is stellar, but they will be young and untested at the collegiate level.