FSU lands linebacker Shawn Murphy from Alabama

Florida State has just landed former Alabama linebacker Shawn Murphy.  This is a huge pickup as the Noles have finally addressed the linebacker core which lost two starters who will be entering the NFL draft. 

Murphy comes in at 6’2” and 225 and is listed as a redshirt freshman. Coming out of high school Murphy was listed as a four star recruit and is also listed as a four star recruit as a transfer. During his time at Alabama Murphy saw action in 18 games and 5 total tackles and a pass breakup. He also played special teams for the Tide.

On paper this is a perfect fit. FSU needs young linebackers to develop to replace former stars Tatum Bethune and Kalen Deloach. Shawn Murphy wants playing time and development. Murphy has three years of eligibility left so this is likely a multi year player for the noles and developed correctly can certainly fill the shoes left behind by DeLoach and Bethune. 

Murphy will have the opportunity to come in and compete for playing time in the spring versus projected frontrunners Dj Lundy and Blake Nichelson, however the linebacker position is one that sees frequent rotations throughout each game so it is likely that regardless who starts the game the position will be rotated and many names will get time.Even though the Noles landed Murphy, the core as a whole is still very young and inexperienced.

Unlike the other players that Florida State landed Murphy wasn’t heavily recruited by Florida State but in the new era of the transfer portal if you enter the portal and have talent you will likely get a call from Mike Norvell very quickly.

Murphy joins the ever growing 2024 transfer class, with 14 incoming transfers.