University of Texas’ defensive tackle, Byron Murphy II, was the No.16 pick in the 2024 draft! He celebrated the big win at the Statler Hotel, surrounded by family and friends. The room was filled with excitement, love, support, and lots of dancing. Amongst the crowd of supporters was Byron’s former coach of Desoto High School, Coach Claude Mathis; “That’s on me” rapper, Yella Beezy, and Heist 88 actor, Bentley Green. Dallas native, Amber Pickens got a chance to with Bryon about his major accomplishment.
Amber: What does tonight mean to you?
Byron Murphy II: I’m just blessed to be in this position, you know. I just want to thank God first. I’m just blessed to be here. This has been my dream since I was five years old, so you know, so this moment means everything to me.
A: What is the I’m importance of putting the hard work and discipline in?
B: It’s very important, especially for me. You get out what you put in, you know. That’s all I’ve believed in since I was a child and that’s what it takes to get here.
A: What are some words of wisdom you would like to share with young aspiring football players looking up to you?
B: Don’t ever let anyone tell you can’t do nothin! Anything is possible, especially with God. Keep God first and anything is possible. You can do anything you put your mind to!
A: Amen
Coach Mathis: I’m so proud of Byron and happy for him and his family. He has been working for this for so long. His accomplishment is well deserved.
A: What has been like being a part of his journey since high school?
C: You know, when I got to Desoto High, I only had two years to work with the young men. He beat the odds against everyone who challenged if he could play. The recruiters said he was too short and he proved everybody wrong!
A: What is the importance of the coaches getting behind their players and really encouraging them throughout their journey?
C: It’s about relationships. Letting your players know you care and believe in them. You have to give them the confidence they need to be successful. Byron is a beast.
Bentley Green: It’s fantastic to see my little cousin get to a place he’s worked hard to get to! I’m ecstatic to be with the family and celebrate him.
A: What has been like to watch him climb to the top and become one the first picks for the 2024 NFL draft?
B: I’m not surprised one bit just because the work he’s put in since he was a kid. I remember going to games and sometimes he wouldn’t eat to make the weight because we was so strong and so fast. I’m proud of the work he’s done in Desoto and all over Texas, and now in the league. I‘m just proud to say that’s my cousin!
A: We’re Texas proud of Byron and you! You’re featured in the feature film, Heist 88. Tell us about your upcoming projects!
B: I have a few projects I’m working on and a short film with Patrick J. Adams. I’m also working on season 4 of Bel-Air.
A: How does it feel to see Byron drafted tonight?
Yella Beezy: It’s a blessing! We come from the same neighborhood so you know, it’s a major blessing. I know all his people, and his people know all my people. It’s a blessing and it shows we all can make it.
A: What is the importance of being a product of your environment in a positive way?
Yella Beezy: It shows that all things are possible. Keep God first. He chose the right way and so did I; just go out and live a good life. He chose the right route, I chose the right route, and anyone can make it.
A: What do you have to say to young rappers out there who look up to you?
Yella Beezy: Keep God first. Stay sucker free in the land of lollipops and stay going!
