Red Murdock went last in the NFL Draft but now gets the party of a lifetime
The University of Buffalo linebacker was the final pick-dubbed 'Mr. Irrelevant'-but that comes with its own spotlight and tradition
At a glance
What matters most
- Red Murdock, a linebacker from the University of Buffalo, was the final pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, chosen by the Denver Broncos.
- Being the last pick earns a player the nickname 'Mr. Irrelevant,' a tradition that dates back to 1976 and includes a weeklong celebration in Newport Beach, California.
- Though picked last, Murdock now gets national attention, a trip for two to Disneyland, and a chance to turn a symbolic moment into a real NFL opportunity.
- The 'Mr. Irrelevant' title has launched unexpected careers-some past recipients have gone on to play for years or even win Super Bowls.
Across the spectrum
What people are saying
A quick look at how the same story is being framed from different angles.
On the Left
Murdock's story highlights how talent isn't always found in the spotlight-players from smaller programs deserve opportunities too. The NFL's focus on big-name schools often overlooks hardworking athletes like him, and traditions like 'Mr. Irrelevant' help correct that imbalance by celebrating resilience over hype.
In the Center
While 'Mr. Irrelevant' is mostly ceremonial, it gives late-round picks valuable exposure and a morale boost. For Murdock, it's a chance to prove he belongs, even if he was the last man drafted. Most NFL careers start with far less attention.
On the Right
This is what hard work looks like in action-Murdock wasn't flashy, but he kept improving and stayed disciplined. The fact that he got drafted at all shows the system works: scouts reward effort, and players from any school can earn their shot if they play smart and stay humble.
Full coverage
What you should know
Red Murdock was sitting at home Saturday evening, watching the final rounds of the 2026 NFL Draft with his family, starting to think his name might not be called at all. Then, with the very last pick, the Denver Broncos made him the 257th and final selection-cementing his place as this year's 'Mr. Irrelevant.'
The title sounds like a jab, but it's actually a long-standing tradition in the NFL. Since 1976, the player taken last has been given the 'Mr. Irrelevant' label not as an insult, but as the start of a lighthearted celebration of perseverance. The honor comes with a weeklong trip to Newport Beach, California, hosted by the man who started it all-former NFL player Paul Salata. There's also a trophy, a parade, and yes, tickets to Disneyland for two.
Murdock, a linebacker from the University of Buffalo, played four solid seasons in the MAC conference, racking up tackles and leadership reps. He wasn't a household name, and most analysts didn't have him on their draft boards. But his coaches praised his consistency, work ethic, and ability to read the game-traits that don't always show up on highlight reels but matter in the locker room and on special teams.
The Broncos, who've been rebuilding their defense, likely see him as a camp body with a shot to earn a roster spot through hustle. And history shows it's not impossible. Former 'Mr. Irrelevant' players like Ryan Succop and Bart Scott carved out long careers. Even Brock Purdy, the 2022 version of the title, is now the starting quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers-proof that draft order isn't destiny.
For Murdock, the moment is about more than just getting picked. It's about recognition. Being 'Mr. Irrelevant' means he's now in a club of underdogs, a group of players who were told they weren't quite good enough-until they proved otherwise. The media attention, the trip, the jokes-it's all part of a rite of passage that turns the end of the draft into a fresh beginning.
The tradition was started by Paul Salata as a way to spotlight players who fly under the radar. Over the decades, it's become something fans look forward to-a reminder that even the last pick has a story, a family in the stands, and a dream that's still very much alive.
Murdock hasn't spoken to the press yet, but his social media lit up after the pick. Teammates, coaches, and even Buffalo fans flooded his feed with pride. He may have gone last, but for now, he's very much relevant.
About this author
Zwely News Staff compiles multi-source reporting into concise, viewpoint-aware coverage for readers who want context without noise.
Source Notes
Red Murdock is 2026 NFL Draft’s Mr. Irrelevant
University of Buffalo linebacker Red Murdock was starting to wonder if he'd get drafted at all when the Denver Broncos made him “Mr. Irrelevant."
Meet Red Murdock, 'Mr. Irrelevant' of the 2026 NFL Draft
'Mr. Irrelevant' is the nickname bestowed upon the final player selected in every NFL draft. Red Murdock is the latest.
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