News · Analysis · Community · Forever SkolByron Murphy Jr. was named NFC Defensive Player of the Week after intercepting two passes in Minnesota's 23-13 win over the Saints on Sunday, according to a report from purpleptsd.com. The cornerback also recorded three tackles and a tackle for loss in New Orleans.
Murphy's first interception came in the third quarter off pressure on quarterback Tyler Shough, the report said. The second came with under three minutes remaining, when Murphy tracked a deep throw intended for Chris Olave and came down with the ball to help close out the game. Olave, the Saints' top receiver, was held to four catches for 46 yards on six targets, per the report.
The two picks give Murphy three interceptions through five games this season, tied for the league lead, the report said. He also has 21 tackles, a tackle for loss and five passes defensed so far. His first interception of the year came against the Bears in Week 2.
Minnesota's defense has generated 10 turnovers through five games, ranking near the top of the league, and has held opponents under 100 passing yards in back-to-back weeks, according to the report. The Vikings are 5-0 entering their bye week, and Murphy's award marks the fourth NFC Player of the Week honor for the team this season across special teams and defense.
The report also noted Murphy signed a three-year, $54 million extension in March 2025, keeping him under contract through 2027, with a restructure completed earlier this year. Murphy posted a career-high six interceptions and a Pro Bowl appearance in 2024, the report said. The source material's account of his more recent interception and pass-defensed totals was inconsistent regarding which season it described, so those figures are not repeated here.
Minnesota is scheduled to host the Colts after the bye.