Denver Broncos Select Red Murdock as Final Pick in 2026 NFL Draft

The 2026 NFL Draft concluded with the Denver Broncos selecting linebacker Red Murdock from the University of Buffalo as the 257th overall pick on Saturday. This selection made Murdock the latest 'Mr. Irrelevant,' a nickname for the final player chosen in the draft.

Multiple sources reported that Murdock, whose birth name is Khalil Murdock, holds the all-time Division I NCAA record with 17 career forced fumbles from 2022 to 2025. Murdock previously broke the record held by fellow Buffalo Bulls alum and current Los Angeles Chargers linebacker Khalil Mack, who had 16 forced fumbles from 2010 to 2013.

his final season, Murdock led the Mid-American Conference with 89 tackle assists and six forced fumbles in 12 games for the 5-7 Buffalo Bulls. 5 tackles for loss and five sacks. Murdock earned All-MAC First Team honors for the past two seasons. At the 2026 NFL Combine in late February, Murdock explained his nickname's origin and his decision to stay at Buffalo despite transfer offers.

“When I was born, I had red hair. Light-skin baby with freckles, so it just stuck.”

“I'm very big on watering your grass. I'm not moved by any type of materialistic thing. Brugler noted Murdock's competitive toughness and playmaking ability in his annual draft guide. Murdock joins a linebacker group including Alex Singleton, Nik Bonitto, and Justin Strnad in Denver. Murdock graduated magna cum laude with a psychology degree in May 2024. He founded and directs Virginia Homework Helpers, a free tutoring program for K-12 students. This background provides options beyond football if needed. The 'Mr. Irrelevant' tradition dates back to 1976, with notable exceptions like Brock Purdy, selected 262nd overall by the San Francisco 49ers in 2022. Purdy stepped into a starting role due to injuries to Trey Lance and Jimmy Garoppolo, leading the team to the NFC Championship as a rookie. In 2023, he started in Super Bowl LVIII, where the 49ers lost in overtime to Kansas City.”

His college production, including leading in forced fumbles, positions him as a potential special teams or depth player. Sources highlighted his work ethic and loyalty to his program as assets for professional development.