Walter Murray (gridiron football) facts for kids

Walter Clyde Murray Jr. was born on December 13, 1962. He is a former American professional football player. He played as a wide receiver in the National Football League (NFL). Before turning pro, he played college football for the University of Hawaii.

Walter Murray's Early Life

Walter Clyde Murray Jr. was born in Berkeley, California, on December 13, 1962. He went to Berkeley High. While there, he was a talented athlete. He set a national record in the 300-meter hurdles. His time was 35.79 seconds. Murray was also part of a relay team. This team set a national record in the mile relay with a time of 3:08.

College Football Career

Murray played college football for the Hawaii Rainbow Warriors. He played for the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa from 1982 to 1985. He was a "letterman" for four years. This means he earned a special award for playing well.

College Statistics

Walter Murray was a great receiver in college.

• In 1982, he caught 31 passes for 494 yards. He also scored five touchdowns.
• In 1983, he had 44 catches for 773 yards. He scored seven touchdowns.
• In 1984, he caught 37 passes for 625 yards. He scored one touchdown.
• In 1985, he had his best year. He caught 66 passes for 973 yards. He scored seven touchdowns.

His 66 catches and seven touchdowns in 1985 set new school records. During his college career, he also returned nine kickoffs for 172 yards. He rushed 22 times for 102 yards. In 1985, he was named a first-team All-American. This is a big honor for college players.

Professional Football Career

Walter Murray was chosen by the Washington Redskins in the 1986 NFL draft. He was the 45th player picked overall. After some discussions, he signed with the Redskins. Then, he was traded to the Indianapolis Colts.

Playing for the Colts

Murray played in five games for the Colts in 1986. He caught two passes for 34 yards. In 1987, he played in 14 games and started three. He had 20 catches for 339 yards. He also scored three touchdowns that year. He played in one playoff game, catching one pass for 25 yards. The Colts released him in August 1988.

Time with Other Teams

Murray later signed with the San Francisco 49ers in February 1989. He was released by them in September 1989.

He then joined the Edmonton Eskimos in the Canadian Football League (CFL). He was first on their practice team. Later, he moved to the main team. He played in five games in the 1989 CFL season. He caught eight passes for 121 yards and scored two touchdowns.

In 1990, Murray was traded to the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, another CFL team. He played in two games for them. He had four catches for 74 yards. He also made two tackles.