The Chargers edge defender group will be short-handed against the Texans this weekend, as Joey Bosa and Chris Rumph II will be out with COVID-19.
Therefore, Kenneth Murray was deemed the starter opposite Uchenna Nwosu this Sunday. With extended playing time in sight, Murray will have the opportunity to show his worth.
Up to this point, the position change from linebacker to pass rusher has not been all sunshine and rainbows for Murray.
Since Week 10, he has accrued just two quarterback pressures and hurries, with the most recent production coming against the Giants when he played a season-high amount of snaps (25).
Murray’s struggles have been a combination of limitations in his counters and strength, lacking a plan of attack when rushing and simply running too wide of the arc.
However, there have been some glimpses of someone who can make an impact in the backfield, as seen in this play below.
Big opportunity for Kenneth Murray this weekend vs. Texans, as he should see an uptick in snaps, with Joey Bosa and potentially Chris Rumph out.
While he's still raw at the position, Murray has flashed on occasion, like here against Andrew Thomas, winning with hesi/inside rip. pic.twitter.com/baDrdW9joU
— Gavino Borquez (@GavinoBorquez) December 23, 2021
The bottom line is that while being down Bosa and Rumph is not ideal, the extended playing time for Murray, who is still new at the position, should be beneficial.
Plus, it helps to have a favorable matchup, facing a Texans offensive line that has allowed the seventh-most sacks this season (37).