The Denver Broncos waited until the very last minute to fix their defense during the 2026 NFL Draft. In a move that surprised everyone, they became the first team ever to hold the final two picks of the draft. They used those spots to grab much-needed help for their linebacker group.

With the very last pick, Denver chose Red Murdock from the Buffalo Bulls. Murdock is known for his incredible ability to knock the ball loose, holding a college record for forced fumbles.

Right after the draft ended, the Broncos also signed Taurean York, a talented player from Texas A&M who wasn't drafted but was highly sought after.

Even though these two players aren't guaranteed a spot on the final 53-man roster, this was a very clever strategy. Most people thought Denver would ignore the linebacker position entirely. By waiting, the team found a cheap and smart way to add talent when no one expected it.

The team’s current starters, Justin Strnad and Alex Singleton, are both veterans. But, with Strnad turning 30 this year and Singleton turning 33, neither is a long-term solution.

Since Jonah Ellis is also slated to play, Murdock and York will get time to develop while having a real chance to compete. They will battle several other young players this summer to prove they deserve a backup spot on the team.

Check Out Which Player Dubbed As “Mr. Irrelevant” This 2026 Draft Season

This year, the Denver Broncos had the final two picks. They chose tight end Dallen Bentley first, and used the very last pick (No. 257) on linebacker Red Murdock, making him the "Mr. Irrelevant" of 2026.

Even though Murdock was the last man chosen, experts think he is much better than his draft position suggests. In fact, based on talent, he was ranked the 75th-best value in the entire draft.

Broncos coach Sean Payton dubbed Murdock a "tackling machine" and praised him for his energy on the field.

“Man, he’s a tackling machine, really instinctive, really good against the run,” GM Paton said. “Just a nose for the ball, relentless, we think he can be a good special teamer. So, we like him.” 

Khalil Elijah "Red" Murdock concluded a dominant four-year career at Buffalo, cementing his legacy as a defensive powerhouse. Over 42 games, he amassed a staggering 364 tackles and 17 forced fumbles.

In his final season, Murdock peaked. He started 12 games and recorded 142 tackles and five sacks to solidify his elite status in the NFL.

Since the Broncos already have veteran starters, Red Murdock won’t have to rush onto the field. He can take a year or two to learn the system and improve his skills before he "eventually become[s] a starter." ESPN analyst Matt Miller believes Denver is just the place for Murdock. 

"The last pick of the draft, Murdock was a 90-point value on the board and fills Denver's need for more depth at linebacker. Alex Singleton and Justin Strnad are entrenched as starters, but Murdock has real value as a third linebacker," he wrote.

Whether he is dominating on special teams or eventually stepping into a starting role, this savvy investment provides Denver with a high-ceiling prospect ready to help in their defense for years to come. 

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Written by

Aaindri Thakuri

Edited by

Arundhoti Palit