DeMarco Murray, American football player

DeMarco Murray: From NFL Star Running Back to Coaching Excellence at Oklahoma

DeMarco Murray, born on February 12, 1988, stands as a distinguished figure in American football, having transitioned from an impactful National Football League (NFL) running back to a respected coach. His professional playing career spanned an impressive seven seasons, a notable duration for the demanding running back position, where he consistently demonstrated elite athleticism and game-changing abilities.

A Dominant NFL Career: Awards and Achievements

Murray's tenure in the NFL was marked by significant individual accolades, cementing his status as one of the league's premier ball carriers during his time. He earned three coveted Pro Bowl selections, an honor recognizing the best players at each position in their respective conferences. Furthermore, he was named a first-team All-Pro once, signifying his recognition as the top player at his position across the entire league. The pinnacle of his professional playing career undoubtedly came in 2014, a season that saw him unanimously awarded the NFL Offensive Player of the Year by the Associated Press. In this record-setting year, Murray not only led the entire NFL in both rushing yards, accumulating an astounding 1,845 yards, but also topped the charts with 13 rushing touchdowns, showcasing a rare combination of volume and scoring prowess. This monumental season underscored his exceptional talent and pivotal role in his team's offense.

Collegiate Roots: The University of Oklahoma

Before making his mark in the professional ranks, DeMarco Murray honed his skills at the collegiate level, playing football for the esteemed University of Oklahoma Sooners. During his time at Oklahoma, Murray distinguished himself as a versatile and prolific offensive weapon, leaving an indelible mark on the program's record books. He became Oklahoma's all-time leader in all-purpose yards with a remarkable 6,718 yards and also holds the record for career touchdowns with 65 (comprising 50 rushing, 13 receiving, and 2 kick return scores). His stellar college performance positioned him as a top prospect, leading to his selection by the Dallas Cowboys in the third round of the 2011 NFL Draft as the 71st overall pick, initiating his highly anticipated professional journey.

Journey Through the NFL: Cowboys, Eagles, and Titans

Murray's NFL career began with a four-season stint with the Dallas Cowboys (2011-2014), where he quickly became a centerpiece of their offensive strategy, culminating in his historic 2014 season. Following his impactful tenure in Dallas, he moved to the Philadelphia Eagles for the 2015 season, adding a different dimension to their backfield. He then spent two seasons with the Tennessee Titans (2016-2017), where he continued to demonstrate his capabilities as a productive running back before ultimately concluding his playing career. Each stop showcased his adaptability and enduring skill set, proving his worth across different team schemes and environments.

Returning Home: Coaching at His Alma Mater

Having retired as a player, DeMarco Murray seamlessly transitioned into a coaching role, bringing his extensive on-field experience and deep understanding of the game to the next generation. In January 2020, Murray returned to his beloved alma mater, the University of Oklahoma, where he currently serves as the running backs coach. This return to the Sooners allows him to mentor young athletes, imparting valuable lessons gleaned from his successful playing career and helping to develop future NFL talent. His coaching role not only represents a full-circle moment but also highlights his dedication to the sport and commitment to fostering excellence within collegiate football.

Frequently Asked Questions About DeMarco Murray

When was DeMarco Murray born?

DeMarco Murray was born on February 12, 1988.

What NFL team drafted DeMarco Murray?

He was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the third round of the 2011 NFL Draft.

What was DeMarco Murray's most successful NFL season?

His most successful season was 2014, when he was named NFL Offensive Player of the Year, leading the league in both rushing yards (1,845) and rushing touchdowns (13).

What records does DeMarco Murray hold at the University of Oklahoma?

DeMarco Murray holds Oklahoma's all-time records for all-purpose yards (6,718) and career touchdowns (65).

What is DeMarco Murray's current role in football?

He currently serves as the running backs coach for his alma mater, the University of Oklahoma, a position he began in January 2020.