Byron Murphy Jr. has something to prove this year.
The 25-year-old signed a two-year deal with the Vikings after four seasons with the Cardinals. The 33rd overall pick in 2019, he had some big moments during his Arizona tenure but has yet to make a Pro Bowl. After an injury-marred 2022 season, the Cardinals let him walk in free agency.
Murphy wants to use this season in Minnesota to prove to the world — and himself — that he has what it takes to be a top-tier No. 1 cornerback in the NFL.
"I just got something to prove, I feel like, this year," Murphy said on Wednesday. "Just something to myself. Every single day, I gotta come out here and work and take nothing for granted."
This week has to mean a little extra for Murphy, who gets the opportunity to practice against his former team. He took full advantage of that chance on Wednesday as he balled out in the first day of Vikings-Cardinals joint practices.
Lining up against Marquise Brown in 1-on-1 drills is nothing new for Murphy; the two went at it in practice all throughout last season. Early in this practice, Murphy put on a clinic against Brown by staying strapped to his hip and jumping in front of the route for an interception.
Later on, Murphy broke up a pass in 11-on-11 action that nearly turned into another INT. He was all over the field on Wednesday, which has been a constant throughout Vikings training camp this year.
Murphy said "it was a normal day," but admitted there was some friendly trash-talk with his old teammates. He made it clear earlier this offseason that he's thrilled with his new situation in Minnesota.
The Vikings are thrilled to have him, too. Not only is Murphy going to be the No. 1 cornerback in Brian Flores' defense, he's assumed a leadership role as the most experienced player in that room.
"Byron, my experience with him, leading into us kind of reaching out months ago to bring him to our football team, was one where some of the players I have the most respect for — guys I coached out in LA like Cooper Kupp, he always talked about Byron," Kevin O'Connell said. "'He’s tough, he’s got great savvy instincts. Quick. Understands what you’re trying to do as a route runner,' and that has shown up from day one.
"What I didn't know is just, he has really assumed a leadership role. Every single day you get the same guy. I think he's excited to be in this organization."
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