Minnesota Vikings Cornerback Byron Murphy Jr.'s experience in the spotlight dates back his time at Saguaro High School in Scottsdale, Arizona, where Murphy was teammates with Jacksonville Jaguars Wide Receiver Christian Kirk. Coming out of high school, Murphy was a 4-Star Recruit, and signed to play football at the University of Washington.
As a member of the Huskies’ Secondary alongside fellow Q-Collar athlete, Buffalo Bills Safety Taylor Rapp, Murphy’s performance yielded major accolades, including being named a 2018 Pro Football Focus First-Team All-American and a member of the 2018 First Team All-PAC 12 Conference Team. After the 2018 season, Murphy was selected by the Arizona Cardinals in the 2nd Round (33rd Overall) in the 2018 NFL Draft. After four strong seasons with the Cardinals, Murphy signed with the Minnesota Vikings before the 2023 season.
After wrapping up his first season with the Vikings, Murphy answered a few quick questions about life off the field, his career thus far, and why he’s decided to wear the Q-Collar to help protect his brain on the field.
What is your favorite moment in your career?
“Without a doubt, my most cherished moment in my career so far is my first pick-six against the Jags in my third year. It's a memory I'll always hold close.”
Is there a particular coach who has had a profound impact on you?
“My high school head coach, Coach Mohns, has had the most profound impact on me. He was the first person to truly believe in my potential to play at a high level and taught me invaluable lessons about professionalism from a young age. I owe a lot of my success to him.”
What does it mean to you to be a part of a great legacy of NFL Defensive Backs to come from the University of Washington?
“Being part of the legacy of NFL Defensive Backs from the University of Washington is a tremendous honor. Knowing the caliber of players who have come before me is incredible, paving the way for guys like myself to proudly represent UW as DBU.”
How did you first learn about the Q-Collar? Have you felt a difference in how you feel since you started wearing the Q-Collar? If so, how?
“I first learned about the Q-Collar in the locker room from a couple of my teammates, and wearing the Q-Collar has made a significant difference for me. It's allowed me to play my game comfortably and with swagger on the field.”
What Defensive Backs do you try to model your game after?
“I try to model my game after legends like Pat P (Patrick Peterson) and Primetime Deion (Deion Sanders), but with my own unique style and flair added to the mix.”
Who was your first mentor in the league? Did you have one?
“Pat P was my biggest mentor, especially early in my career. Being drafted in my hometown and having someone like him, with all his experience and accolades, to guide me was invaluable.”
Is there a sport outside of football that you follow? If so, who is your favorite team?
“Outside of football, basketball is my second love. Growing up around the game, I don't have a favorite team per se, but I follow certain players closely and keep up with the playoffs. My uncle, Mike Bibby, got me into AAU from a young age, so basketball has always been a big part of my life.”
What do you enjoy doing in your free time outside of football?
“In my free time, I love spending quality time with my son, playing golf and video games, hitting the gym, and cherishing moments with my family.”
