Seattle defensive tackle Byron Murphy II says his mindset has helped him play at a high level through the first nine games of the 2026 season.
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Seahawks defensive tackle Byron Murphy II says his approach to games in his third season has him “locked in” once he makes his first tackle or generates his first contact.
Murphy described his mindset ahead of games, saying, “My mindset shifts. Like, 'I know you can't mess with me.'” He added, “That's my mind going into the game. 'You can't block me; you won't be able to block me.' Once I make the first play or first contact with somebody, now I'm in that mode.”
According to the team, Murphy has been in that “mode” through the first nine games of the season. Head coach Mike Macdonald praised his impact, saying, “He's done a great job,” adding that Murphy has “affected the quarterback” in his one-on-one matchups and “played off of guys so Murph's playing at a high level still.”
Murphy is leading Seattle with 4.0 sacks and is tied with teammates Leonard Williams and Derick Hall with seven tackles for loss each. He also has seven quarterback hits.
Murphy said he expects continued improvement, saying, “I feel like I'm heading in the right direction to have a good year,” and adding that he wants to keep working “week-in, week-out” and “keep chasing edges instead of trying to find edges.”
He noted that he is already more than halfway to his 2025 sack total, when he recorded 7.0 sacks for the entire season.
Defensive coordinator Aden Durde pointed to changes in Murphy’s preparation, saying, “His confidence is growing and he's taking the classroom and the field practice.” Durde said Murphy is using a day-to-day approach to decide “How am I attacking my situation and when do I deal?” and that “it shows up on Sunday.”
In the offseason into Year 3, Murphy set goals to become a more complete player, including improving as a run defender and as a pass rusher. He said, “I always knew I could pass rush,” and described how he enjoys both the pass-rush and run responsibilities.
Murphy also said he has taken notes from veterans Jarran Reed and Leonard Williams on film study, caring for his body, and understanding offensive linemen.
Safety Ty Okada said Murphy’s progress reflects work and coaching, adding, “It's just a product of the work that he's been putting in,” and that he is continuing to make “stride after stride.”
Murphy said his confidence this season is driving his play, saying, “This year, this season, [my confidence is] through the roof,” and, “I'm not thinking about anything, I'm just playing.”
He also said that opposing players have noticed him, saying, “It's cool to see that guys around the league (are) coming up to me after the games and telling me they respect me and respect my game.”
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