Sep 21, 2013; Provo, UT, USA; Utah Utes tight end Jake Murphy (82) catches a pass between Brigham Young Cougars linebacker Uani Unga (41) and defensive back Daniel Sorensen (9) at Lavell Edwards Stadium. Utah Utes defeated Brigham Young Cougars 20-13. Mandatory Credit: Chris Nicoll-USA TODAY Sports
5. TE- Jake Murphy (Utah) 6′ 4″ 252 lbs.
Murphy definitely has the body (height, weight, and frame) of a tight end. He has really soft hands with good hand-eye coordination. He is a strong runner after the catch with good flexibility and agility to gain separation from defenders. He became a stronger and more physical blocker in 2013.
Interestingly enough, his biggest knock’s are the fact that he broke his wrist on October 3, 2013, and missed 4-games due to the injury. Also, they say he is older at 24-years of age, and this could be an issue. This is why his draft stock plummeted for the 2014 NFL Draft.
Honestly, Murphy could be a huge steal for the Oakland Raiders, and he could send David Ausberry, Brian Leonhardt, or Nick Kasa packing if he impresses the coaches. Murphy has been compared to TE- Dennis Pitta, and he would be an outstanding complement to Mychal Rivera.