Carolina Panthers: Could Kenneth Murray replace Luke Kuechly?
By Dean Jones
Oklahoma linebacker Kenneth Murray is a phenomenal prospect that the Carolina Panthers should be considering as a long-term replacement for Luke Kuechly.
The Carolina Panthers are on the lookout for a long-term replacement for legendary linebacker Luke Kuechly in the 2020 NFL Draft. Oklahoma’s tackling monster Kenneth Murray is a projected first-round pick who could very well fit the bill.
His last year with the Sooners cemented his place as a top NFL Draft prospect and it would be a huge surprise if he made it out of the first 20 selections.
He recorded 102 tackles, four sacks, and four pass deflections in 2019. Murray possesses a fantastic football IQ that is matched by superb instincts that seem to get him in the right place at the right time.
The player also demonstrates the sort of versatility that every NFL coach is looking for. He can perform well either on the inside or as an outside linebacker and has the same sort of impact in either spot.
Another eye-catching feature to his game is the way he can get off blocks and finish tackles well during the running game. Murray has quick feet and a good variety of pass-rushing moves that will make a good transition to the next level.
Murray is a gifted athlete that has no trouble covering tight ends or slot receivers if needed. Given the impact passing attacks are expected to have in the NFC South next season, this is going to be a real asset for the Panthers to call upon if they end up with the player.
If Clemson standout Isaiah Simmons is the top linebacker prospect available in the 2020 NFL Draft, then Murray is not far behind. He has two years of incredible film to back up his talent and is as close to a sure-fire product as you are going to find.