DeMarco Murray to the Dallas Cowboys: 2011 NFL Draft Scouting Report

When he is healthy, Oklahoma's DeMarco Murray is something special.  He has all the skills of an NFL back.  His size (6’, 213) allows him to run effectively between the tackles, he is fast enough to turn the corner (4.37 40), and he has great pass-catching skills.  

Murray often gets compared to the man he replaced in the Oklahoma Sooners' backfield, All-World RB Adrian Peterson.  Unfortunately, this comparison comes as much from Murray's health issues as for his remarkable skill set.

Murray battled leg injuries his entire career in Norman, and NFL teams would be remiss not to consider his durability to be an issue.

Another concern for NFL scouts is Murray’s tendency to run high, leaving him open to big hits and injury and limiting his yards-after-contact potential.  

His keys for success in the NFL will be staying healthy and adjusting to a lower running style, much like former Arkansas RB Darren McFadden did last season in Oakland.  

It is important to note that, despite his injuries, Murray was still very productive in college. He left tradition-rich Oklahoma as the school's all-time leader in all-purpose yards and (6,948 yds) and touchdowns (64).

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“When I saw him as a freshman, I thought he was gonna be another Reggie Bush. He’s had injuries. He’s really a good receiver, what, (71) catches this last year. He’s productive. The biggest thing I’d worry about is he seems a little bit stiff in the hips and his injuries. That’s what’d worry me.” Gil Brandt NFL.com

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“Obviously, Murray’s a great pass catcher. He can give you a lot on third downs. I think he’s a little bit of a narrow-based runner, if that makes sense – runs a little bit high, takes a lot of shots to the body, has the durability issue, and that makes me nervous.” – Todd McShay

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Murray has the talent to be a starter and he will get a chance to play as a rookie.  Tashard Choice hasn't worked out as the Cowboys' third RB, and Marion Barber and Felix Jones will need someone to share the carries with.  Overall a solid pick for the Cowboys, Murray can help immediately and grow into the role of feature back in a few years, if he can stay healthy.