Gabriel Murphy Bio
Gabriel Murphy is an American professional football linebacker who currently plays for the Minnesota Vikings of the National Football League (NFL). Born on October 13, 2000, in Dallas, Texas, Murphy attended Bishop Lynch High School before embarking on his college football career. He played three seasons with the North Texas Mean Green from 2019 to 2021, then transferred to UCLA where he spent two seasons with the Bruins from 2022 to 2023. Murphy entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2024, signing with the Minnesota Vikings in April of that year.
Early Life and Background
Gabriel Murphy grew up in Dallas, Texas, where he attended Bishop Lynch High School. During his time at Bishop Lynch, Murphy developed into a promising football player, showcasing the skills that would later earn him a collegiate opportunity. His athletic abilities and dedication to the sport set the foundation for his future career at the next level.
Murphy received interest from multiple college programs and ultimately decided to continue his football journey by committing to the University of North Texas. This decision marked the beginning of his transition from high school athletics to collegiate competition, where he would have the chance to prove himself against higher-level competition.
Path to Professional Football
Murphy began his college career at North Texas in 2019, joining the Mean Green program as a linebacker and defensive end. Over his three seasons with the program from 2019 to 2021, he appeared in 24 games and made 15 starts. During this stretch, he recorded 73 tackles and 12 sacks, demonstrating his ability to make an impact on the defensive side of the ball.
Following his junior season in 2021, Murphy entered the NCAA transfer portal, seeking a new opportunity. He ultimately decided to transfer to the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where he would continue his academic and athletic pursuits with the Bruins. This move represented a significant step in his development as a player.
In his first season with UCLA in 2022, Murphy made an immediate impact by starting all 13 games. He recorded 38 tackles and 1.5 sacks, showing his ability to adapt to a new program and competition level. The following year in 2023, he continued his strong performance, again starting all 13 games and recording 38 tackles with eight sacks. His consistent production at UCLA helped solidify his draft stock heading into the 2024 NFL Draft.
Gabriel Murphy Career
Minnesota Vikings (2024)
Despite going undrafted in the 2024 NFL Draft, Gabriel Murphy caught the attention of the Minnesota Vikings, who signed him as an undrafted free agent on April 27, 2024. The Vikings saw potential in Murphy’s college production and versatility as both a linebacker and edge rusher. His ability to contribute in multiple defensive roles made him an attractive addition to the organization.
Simultaneously, Murphy was selected by the San Antonio Brahmas in the second round of the 2024 UFL Draft on July 17, 2024. However, his primary focus remained on establishing himself within the Vikings organization. He began the 2024 season on injured reserve, placed on the roster on August 27. This setback temporarily halted his progression, but he remained committed to earning his place on the team.
Murphy was activated from injured reserve on November 26, 2024, though he was waived the following day. The Vikings quickly signed him to their practice squad, ensuring he could continue developing within their system. This period provided Murphy with valuable time to learn the professional game and adapt to the speed and complexity of NFL defenses.
Continued Development (2025)
Murphy signed a reserve/future contract with the Minnesota Vikings on January 16, 2025, signaling the team’s continued interest in his development. This contract represented a vote of confidence in his potential and provided him with an opportunity to compete for a roster spot heading into the 2025 season. The coaching staff saw value in his skill set and work ethic.
During the 2025 season, Murphy remained in the Vikings organization as part of their practice squad. He continued to refine his technique and learn the professional game while awaiting his opportunity to contribute on the field. The transition from college to professional football requires adjustment time, and Murphy approached this challenge with dedication and focus.
Playing Style and Strengths
Gabriel Murphy brings versatility to the linebacker position, having experience playing both linebacker and defensive end during his college career. His ability to rush the quarterback was evident at UCLA, where he accumulated 9.5 sacks over two seasons. Murphy’s experience starting games at multiple programs demonstrates his adaptability and football intelligence. His collegiate production, including 12 sacks at North Texas and strong tackle numbers at UCLA, showcases his ability to make plays in both run defense and pass rush situations.
Notable Events and Milestones
Murphy’s professional journey has included several notable milestones, including his signing as an undrafted free agent with the Vikings in 2024. Being selected by the San Antonio Brahmas in the UFL Draft while simultaneously being part of the Vikings organization highlighted his value as a player. His transition from injured reserve to the active roster and practice squad during his rookie season represented important steps in his professional development.
Gabriel Murphy Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
Gabriel Murphy shares a unique connection with his identical twin brother, Grayson Murphy. The brothers have followed remarkably similar athletic paths throughout their lives. They played together at both North Texas and UCLA, providing each other with support and competition throughout their football journeys.
Personal Life
Gabriel Murphy maintains a close relationship with his twin brother Grayson, who currently plays for the Miami Dolphins. The brothers’ parallel careers have created a lasting bond, with both players reaching the NFL level despite the challenges of collegiate transfers and professional transitions. Their shared experiences in football have shaped both their personal and professional lives.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 season marked a continued development period for Gabriel Murphy within the Minnesota Vikings organization. Entering his second professional season, Murphy worked to build upon his rookie year experiences and establish himself as a reliable member of the defensive unit. The coaching staff continued to evaluate his progress throughout training camp and the early portions of the season.
Following final roster cuts on August 26, 2025, Murphy was signed to the Vikings practice squad the following day. This maintained his connection to the organization and provided him with continued opportunities to develop within the professional environment. Practice squad duties allow young players to hone their skills while contributing to the team’s overall preparation each week.
Murphy’s career trajectory reflects the reality faced by many undrafted free agents in the NFL, where consistent development and patience are essential. His ability to remain within the Vikings system demonstrates his value as a player and his commitment to pursuing his NFL dreams. The 2025 season served as another chapter in his ongoing professional journey.