Despite an outstanding collegiate career at Buffalo University, Red Murdock watched his impressive statistics and achievements fail to impress NFL scouts throughout draft weekend.
The Denver Broncos finally called Murdock’s name on Sunday, selecting him with pick number 257 – the final selection of the seven-round 2026 NFL Draft held in Pittsburgh. This distinction automatically grants him the well-known “Mr. Irrelevant” designation.
The second-team All-American becomes the 51st athlete to receive the “Mr. Irrelevant” moniker since the custom started in 1976.
During his Buffalo tenure, Murdock – whose given name is Khalil – established a new FBS milestone with 17 forced fumbles throughout his career. His yearly totals included four in 2023, seven in 2024, and six in 2025. In a twist of fate, former Buffalo standout Khalil Mack, now an established NFL veteran, previously owned the record with 16.
In 2025, Murdock finished third nationally with 142 total tackles while recording five quarterback sacks among his 13.5 tackles behind the line of scrimmage. The previous year saw him rank second across the country with 156 tackles. Both seasons earned him first-team All-Mid-American Conference recognition.
Despite these accomplishments, Murdock grew increasingly anxious as the draft’s final day progressed, fearing he might not be selected at all.
“I feel extremely grateful and excited to help the Broncos win, above all else,” Murdock told reporters. “I know a little bit about Mr. Irrelevant, but the main thing is I got an opportunity, and I’m trying to make the most of it to help us win.”
The most successful Mr. Irrelevant remains quarterback Brock Purdy, who San Francisco selected with the 2022 draft’s concluding pick. Despite an impressive collegiate resume at Iowa State, Purdy watched 261 players chosen before him.
Purdy quickly proved his worth, leading the 49ers to the 2023 Super Bowl before falling to the Kansas City Chiefs in the championship game.
Paul Salata, the former NFL wide receiver who created the Mr. Irrelevant tradition, passed away in 2021 at 94 years old.
The final draft selection generates more publicity than any other seventh-round pick, with attention peaking when the player visits Southern California for the annual Irrelevant Week celebration. The festivities culminate with presentation of the “Lowsman Trophy.”
