Los Angeles Chargers: Complete draft grades for the 2020 NFL Draft
By Nick Ziegler
– Kenneth Murray
In what came as a surprise to many, the Chargers traded back into the first round. In a deal with the New England Patriots, the Chargers ended up with the 23rd pick in the draft. With the pick, the Chargers went with Kenneth Murray, who is a linebacker from Oklahoma.
Linebacker wasn’t considered a need for the Chargers coming into the draft, but they did lose Thomas Davis this offseason, who led the team in tackles. For Murray, he will be able to step in and help the Chargers in the middle with his knack for following the football.
The Chargers were mediocre against the run last season, and Murray certainly thrives in that area. While Murray will help against the run, he didn’t show much in the passing game. Despite having good speed, Murray wasn’t great in coverage at Oklahoma. Also, he didn’t get after the passer much.
While he isn’t a complete prospect, he has a great work ethic and was a leader for Oklahoma on the defensive side of the ball. The Chargers know that Murray will always give them everything he has, and that is always welcomed to see in the locker room.
By adding Murray, the Chargers will continue to build on an already strong young defensive unit. While Murray could be a good player for the Chargers, the price to get him was not cheap. That has to be factored in to the grade.