Denver Broncos select Khalil ‘Red’ Murdock, a standout linebacker from Buffalo, with the 257th and final pick of the 2026 NFL Draft, earning him the infamous ‘Mr. Irrelevant’ title.
What is ‘Mr. Irrelevant’?
The nickname dates back to 1976, when former wide receiver Paul Salata created ‘Irrelevant Week’ to celebrate the draft’s last pick. Most recipients enjoy brief NFL careers, but exceptions exist. San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy, the 2022 Mr. Irrelevant picked 262nd overall, defies the odds. After a solid college stint at Iowa State, Purdy starts in the Super Bowl during his second season.
Murdock aims to follow Purdy’s path and prove Denver uncovered a gem with their final selection. The Broncos held the draft’s last two picks, first taking Utah tight end Dallen Bentley at 256th before grabbing Murdock.
Murdock’s College Dominance
The 22-year-old linebacker set the NCAA record for career forced fumbles with 17. In his final season, he posted 142 tackles, five sacks, and six forced fumbles. During 2024, Murdock achieved a career-high 156 tackles and seven forced fumbles—the most in a single season by any player.
Broncos Strengthen Linebacker Unit
As defending AFC West champions, Denver boasts the NFL’s second-ranked defense, allowing just 278.2 yards per game last year behind only the Houston Texans’ 277.2. The unit led the league with 68 sacks. Before drafting Murdock, the Broncos re-signed linebackers Alex Singleton and Justin Strnad to deepen their linebacker room.
