Murphy was a productive two-year starter for the Bulls. He is a tall, lean secondary defender with deceptive strength. He is a tough hardnosed perimeter defender who lacks great quickness and speed to play out on an island in man coverages. Murphy is a physical corner who can jam and reroute receivers off the line of scrimmage and he's a solid run support defender. He is an instinctive player who leverages the ball well in coverage as well as maintaining proper body positioning defending the run. He can be inconsistent in block protection and wrapping up in the open field, but he is very aggressive for the cornerback position. Murphy is a good football player who has some limitations but should contribute as a rookie in a Cover 2 defensive scheme.

Long with adequate bulk and fluid hips. Anticipates routes while dropping back in zone coverage and does a good job of tracking the play. Good leaper who high-points the ball. Fiery and aggressive defender who fills hard and likes to deliver shots.

Average speed and lateral quickness limit his effectiveness in man coverage. Footwork is a little sloppy, and he sometimes gets spun around. Gives too much of a cushion and breaks on the ball a little late. Bit of a gambler who can get caught out of position. Does not always wrap when tackling.