Jerome

Murphy

The 65th overall pick in the 2010 draft reunites with Steve Spagnuolo, who helped draft Murphy out of South Florida three Aprils ago. Murphy is a physical corner who couldn’t stay healthy in St. Louis, but can play press coverage and zone coverage and should already have a solid grasp on New Orleans’ defense. He’ll push Johnny Patrick and Corey White for snaps in sub-packages.

A third-round pick in 2010, Murphy appeared in 14 games as a rookie, but spent 2011 on injured reserve with a broken ankle. His draft pedigree should earn him some looks on the waiver wire.

The Lions gave Barnes 14 defensive snaps before bailing on him. They had dealt undisclosed future compensation to the Redskins in exchange for him late last month. Murphy lasted just two weeks with his old coach, Steve Spagnuolo, in New Orleans.

It’s not a good sign for Murphy’s long-term NFL outlook that old pal Steve Spagnuolo cut him after a 15-day trial run. Murphy is now eligible to be claimed off waivers elsewhere. He was the 65th overall pick in the 2010 draft.

Murphy failed to appear in a game with the Lions after being claimed off waivers. SS Ricardo Silva was signed from the practice squad to the active roster in a corresponding move.

Murphy has been with the Rams, Saints, and Lions since the start of training camp. He’s played mostly corner since being drafted at the top of the third round in 2010, but he may play some safety with Brandon Meriweather (torn ACL) out for the year.

Fletcher is still recovering from knee surgery, but the Rams are confident he’ll be healthy by July. 65th overall pick Jerome Murphy will give Fletcher his biggest test. Murphy is big and physical with ball skills, and obviously has a health advantage. Kevin Dockery will probably be the slot corner.

CB Jerome Murphy was waived in a corresponding roster move. A second-year undrafted free agent, Bellamy appeared in three games for the Chiefs last season, but made zero catches. He’ll contribute on special teams in Washington.

It was a slight improvement on Murphy’s 4.50 from the Combine. He also impressed in Indianapolis with his vertical (38"), broad jump (10'7"), and short shuttle time (4.05). Murphy is a second- to third-round prospect.

Murphy, who NFL Network’s Mike Mayock considers a top-five corner in the draft, probably didn’t help himself by showing up grilled out like Marshawn Lynch. Murphy had four interceptions and forced two fumbles as a senior.