When DeMarco Murray left Oklahoma for the NFL, no other former Sooner had scored more touchdowns or gained more yards in the crimson and white. Cynics joked that no other player had suffered more injuries, either. Murray left school with the label of being “injury-prone,” and it cost him at the draft. In the third round, the Cowboys took a chance on Murray and he entered the NFL having to prove he could stay healthy playing the game’s most punishing position.
Murray started last season third on the depth chart. In the first four weeks of the season, Murray spent most of his time on the sideline, observing and waiting for his chance.
A week five injury to Felix Jones opened the door for Murray and he ran right through it. The following week the Cowboys hosted the Rams and Murray had a record setting day. He rushed for 253-yards on 25 carries and broke Emmitt Smith’s single game rushing record for a Cowboys running back.
Murray was well on his way to rookie of the year type season before his bad luck at Oklahoma caught up to him in the NFL. In a week 14 game against the Giants, Murray fractured his ankle and was placed on season ending IR the next day.
Pro Player Insiders Blake Novacek caught up with DeMarco Murray at Cowboy’s training camp to find out if he is prepared for the season, what his goals are for the first scrimmage against the Raiders, and how he is helping the rookies.
ProPlayerInsiders: You impressed everyone last year by breaking Emmit’s record, then you injured your ankle. How do you think you’re going to do this year with everyone wondering and your high expectations?
DeMarco Murray: I think I am going to do good. I have come back and had a great offseason. Feeling good. Getting to work and training camp. The offensive line is doing real well. The team is doing real well. I am excited to see where we go.
PPI: What are your personal goals for the first scrimmage against the Oakland Raiders?
Murray: I just want to work hard and make an impact. I don’t really share any of my personal goals, but hopefully I will be able to go out there and compete.
PPI: How are you helping the rookies and showing them the ropes of pro-football?
Murray: I am just trying to give them a little advice at a time. You don’t want to put too much in their head. At the same time, I just really want to emphasize the work effort part and just doing their assignment. Don’t try to do too much just do your job and work hard.
By Blake Novacek @Blake_PPI
