Kyler Murray: Football or Baseball?

Kyler Murray: Football or Baseball?

The Oklahoma Sooners have had the luxury of having a star quarterback over the last 2 years. Last year was Heisman Trophy winner Baker Mayfield, who had a spectacular rookie season as he led the Cleveland Browns to their first win in 2 years and finished the season winning 5 of 7 and leading the team to a 7-8-1 record. It doesn’t sound too glamorous, but compared to recent years, this is a huge step in the right direction.

Now this year, is the special story of Kyler Murray. The most recent quarterback for the Oklahoma Sooners also won the Heisman Trophy and led the Sooners to a 12-1 record and an appearance in the College Football playoff. He had over 4,000 passing yards and threw for 42 touchdowns with only 7 interceptions. He also ran for 1,001 rushing yards with 12 rushing touchdowns. He just recently declared for the NFL Draft and is a highly touted prospect and will most likely be drafted in the 1st round. What makes him so intriguing is that he was also the No. 9 overall pick in the MLB Draft, as he was drafted as an outfielder by the Oakland Athletics. So, the question is, should he go play in the MLB or the NFL?

In my opinion, Murray should take his talents to the baseball diamond. While obviously a stud college football, I feel his lack of height does not translate well to the NFL. While not the most impressive baseball stats (.296 10 HR 47 RBI), it is still impressive enough and with good development in the minor leagues, he could impact an MLB team in a big way soon. His makeup doesn’t give you the calling for a professional football player, but he could be a speedster on the diamond and can also prolong his professional career if he took the baseball route.

Do I think he is going to be a star in either league? No. But I do think that he has a better chance of succeeding on the diamond rather than the gridiron.

By: Richie Dordas