As the draft draws nearer, the future of the top players in the country is speculated on in growing detail. But while the efforts of these high profile players are put under a spotlight, even more players work and toil with equal dedication in the shadows, hoping to make their NFL dreams come true.
UNLV offensive tackle, Matt Murphy is one of a multitude of players who, after enjoying a decorated college career, finds himself needing to prove his worth all over again. Despite being a four year starter for the Rebels at left tackle and earning All-MWC 2nd team once and Honorable Mention after two other seasons, Murphy was noticeably absent from the NFL Combine invite list.
“Not getting an invite was disappointing,” admitted Murphy, “but I just keep trying to get better and improve as a football player. I just want to make sure I get the chance to showcase and perform to the best of my ability.”
In order to prove to NFL teams that he has what it takes to succeed at the next level, Murphy has been training with former World’s Strongest Man, Mark Phillipi, focusing on the technique surrounding drills such as the three cone, bench press and pro shuttle, which Matt confesses “is more technique than I thought. Even with my 40 yard, every step is planned out.” The two men have also been working on Matt’s overall fitness. “The workouts are intense and long and I’ve felt like my body is responding well and has gotten leaner and stronger.”
In fact, Matt’s hard work has dated back to the beginning of December, a silver lining after UNLV’s disappointing season. He has always maintained a sharp focus when it comes to his football future, something he attributes to the guidance received from his father and grandfather. “They always pushed me and gave me confidence. They told me that the hard work was going to pay off in the end and just kept my eyes on the goal.”
It’s that level-headedness and resolve that scouts are most drawn to in Matt. An honors candidate, the recipient of UNLV’s Character Award after the 2009 season and the program’s nominee for the AFCA Good Works Team in recognition of his work in the community, Matt has impressed not only as a physically punishing blocker, but as an intellectual athlete. It’s an attribute that he takes pride in, but doesn’t dwell on. “I’m a smart football player,” he offers. “I understand systems, but in football there is always room for improvement, so I just keep working.”
Matt’s knowledge of blocking schemes and versatility to fill many roles on the offensive line also adds to his value. “I’ve been told that my body type might be ideal for guard,” he admits, but also revealed that he’s been spending time working at Center as well. For a player who’s made 45 consecutive starts at Left Tackle, the potential switch doesn’t seem to affect him too much. “I believe I can play anywhere. When I came to UNLV, I had never played on the left side, so I’ve always believed that I can accustom myself to whatever I need to do.”
Despite the grueling daily workouts, Matt seems to be thriving in the intense environment. “I’ve been playing football for 14 years. My body is just built for it.”
By all indications, he could be adding a few more years to that total when all is said and done.
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