HEADLINE

Five-star DE Murphy joining Clemson

Field Level Media

May 18, 2019 at 2:33 am.

Five-star defensive end Myles Murphy announced his commitment to Clemson on Friday, choosing the reigning national champions over Auburn.

The commitment gives Clemson five five-star recruits in the 2020 class, according to the 247Sports composite. The composite pegs Murphy — of Powder Springs, Ga. — as the No. 8 player in the entire class and the second-best strong-side defensive end.

The top strong-side defensive end, Jordan Burch of Hammond (S.C.), is also considering Clemson, which has the nation’s consensus top recruiting class thus far. The Tigers already had top defensive tackle Bryan Bresee committed.

Murphy, a 6-foot-5, 255-pounder, announced his decision at halftime of the Hillgrove (Ga.) High spring game, while surrounded by his teammates.

Murphy’s parents told ESPN they believe Clemson gives their son his best opportunity to excel on the field and academically, where he intends to pursue an engineering degree.

Among his many other offers were Alabama, Florida, Michigan, Ohio State, Penn State and South Carolina.

Clemson is looking to restock a defensive line that had four players drafted into the NFL in April, including three in the top 17 picks.