Adrian Murrell facts for kids

Adrian Byran Murrell (born October 16, 1970) is a former American football player. He was a talented running back in the National Football League (NFL). Adrian was chosen by the New York Jets in the 1993 NFL draft. He played college football for the West Virginia Mountaineers. Murrell played in the NFL for nine seasons, from 1993 to 2000 and again in 2003.

Adrian Murrell's Football Journey

Growing Up and High School

Adrian Murrell grew up in Fayetteville, North Carolina. He later attended Leilehua High School in Wahiawa, Hawaii. This is where he first showed his skills on the football field.

College Football Days

Adrian Murrell started playing college football at West Virginia University in 1990. In his first year, he played a little but didn't get many chances.

In 1991, his second year, Adrian became a starting player. He ran for 904 yards and scored seven touchdowns. He also caught passes for 100 yards. The team improved that season, winning six games.

His best college season was in 1992, his junior year. Adrian ran for an amazing 1,145 yards and six touchdowns. He also caught passes for 244 yards and three receiving touchdowns. He became well-known across the country for his strong play.

Adrian Murrell is also a member of the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity.

Playing in the NFL

Adrian Murrell decided to leave college after his junior year. He was picked by the New York Jets in the fifth round of the 1993 NFL draft. This is where his professional football career began.

New York Jets: A Strong Start

In his first two years with the Jets (1993 and 1994), Adrian played in a limited role. He gained 317 yards and scored one touchdown.

In 1995, Adrian really started to shine. He ran for 795 yards and scored a touchdown. He also caught many passes, adding 495 receiving yards and two touchdowns.

The next year, 1996, was his best season ever. He ran for 1,249 yards, which was one of the best in the league. He also scored six rushing touchdowns and one receiving touchdown.

In 1997, Adrian continued his strong performance. He ran for 1,086 yards and seven touchdowns. He also caught two receiving touchdowns.

Arizona Cardinals: New Team, Big Plays

After the 1997 season, Adrian was traded to the Arizona Cardinals. In 1998, he had another great year, running for 1,042 yards and eight touchdowns. He played in all 16 games that season.

Adrian helped the Cardinals win their first playoff game since 1947. He ran for 95 yards and caught a touchdown pass in their win against the Dallas Cowboys. In 1999, he ran for 553 yards and caught 49 passes for 335 yards.

Later Career: Other Teams

After his time with the Cardinals, Adrian played for a few other teams. In 2000, he joined the Washington Redskins. He played in a limited role, gaining 50 rushing yards.

In 2001, he signed with the Carolina Panthers but was released before the season started. After a two-year break, Adrian returned to the NFL in 2003. He played his final professional season with the Dallas Cowboys, where he gained 107 rushing yards.

Life After Football

Adrian Murrell's younger brother, Marques Murrell, also played football. Marques was a defensive end for Appalachian State University. He later signed a contract with the New York Jets in 2007.

Adrian is married to Tonia Peck Murrell. They have three children. His father was a career soldier and a Command Sergeants Major.