2014 NFL Draft: Georgia Bulldogs QB Aaron Murray could be 2nd-round pick

Georgia Bulldogs quarterback Aaron Murray (11) runs the ball in the first half against the Kentucky Wildcats at Sanford Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Shirey-USA TODAY Sports

Georgia Bulldogs quarterback Aaron Murray was considered to be one of the most highly regarded signal-callers in the country prior to going down with an ACL tear near the end of his senior season in Athens, but even after that momentum, there is reason to believe that he could be headed toward a loftier NFL Draft selection than many anticipated.

Gil Brandt of NFL.com had some glowing things to say about Murray after his Pro Day performance on Wednesday:

"Murray — who has 9 1/8-inch hands — threw 54 passes at the pro day, with just two that would be considered not catchable. He showed good velocity on the ball, but toward the end of the workout it appeared as if his arm got tired. His knee looked stable, but he did wear a brace on it.If there’s a run on quarterbacks in the second round of the 2014 NFL Draft, he could wind up being selected in that round."

Brandt’s revelation that Murray could go as high as the 2nd round isn’t quite in line with the general consensus that he is a “mid-round” pick, but it brings a great deal of optimism for fans of Murray and the Georgia Bulldogs. Murray is the most prolific passer in UGA history, and while he had some detractors as he headed into his senior season, the majority of those doubts were silenced with some significant performances on the big stage.

Obviously, the “real” fate of Murray won’t be decided until the Draft takes place in early May, but every NFL prospect wants to read glowing reports in the wake of their respective Pro Days, and this report from Gil Brandt certainly qualifies.