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Murphy Ready To Learn More About Michigan

Perhaps no Class of 2016 target began the recruiting process as familiar with U-M head coach Jim Harbaugh as did Phoenix (Ariz.) Brophy prep defensive end Connor Murphy.

Now a 6-7, 255-pound four-star, Murphy was just an elementary schooler when Harbaugh babysat him during the course of his older brother's recruiting process. Trent Murphy signed with Stanford, developed into a second-round draft pick, and recently completed his second year with the NFL's Washington Redskins.

Now, Murphy is ready to get familiar with the football side of the man with whom he played chess on the living room floor during his younger years.

"I'm taking an official visit to USC [Jan.] 15," Murphy explained. "I'll be at Michigan the week after that - my first visit to Michigan."

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Oregon is another school high on Muphy's list - he took an official visit to Eugene Nov. 20 - and he's taken several unofficial visits to in-state programs Arizona and Arizona State, as well. If he's to end up at Michigan, Harbaugh's history with the Murphy family will play a big role.

So too will Murphy's desire to play in a strong defense. The Maize and Blue were near the top of the national marks in 2015, and project to stay there with the arrival of new coordinator Don Brown. Murphy wants to learn more abut his style.

"Coach Harbaugh reached out and informed me about [the hire]," Murphy said. "I don't know much about the coach yet, but Boston College was another school that offered me. I'm sure he will be another of the greats that have coached with Coach Harbaugh."

Murphy, who will play in the U.S. Army All-American Bowl Jan. 9 in San Antonio, is itching to get back on the field for that contest after being limited in his senior year due to injury. He missed about half the season, but still made 30 tackles (five for loss), two sacks, and two pass breakups.

He is the No. 15 strongside defensive end and No. 198 overall prospect nationally, and the No. 4 senior in Arizona. Michigan already holds commitments from a handful of defensive linemen, and in addition to Murphy, the nation's top overall prospect, Rashan Gary, remains on the board.

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