Oklahoma quarterback Kyler Murray is a terrific two sport athlete who has excelled at both football and baseball throughout his life. Murray has played both sports since he was a little boy and plays both sports at Oklahoma now.

Murray was drafted ninth overall in the Major League Baseball draft on Monday night by the Oakland A’s. From a baseball talent standpoint , Murray has tremendous upside. Speed is his calling card but Murray can hit the ball to all parts of the field and he is an exceptional outfielder. Murray has the makings of a future lead off hitter who can be a building block for the A’s.

Murray was also a five star recruit coming out of high school. He originally signed with Texas A&M but after losing out on the starting quarterback job to Kyle Allen, Murray decided to transfer to Oklahoma. After patiently waiting his turn the last two years, he is now the starting quarterback. It makes for quite the quandary, especially for a 20 year old kid.

Despite being drafted by the A’s, Murray has decided to honor his commitment to the Sooners and play football this fall. The decision has gotten mixed reviews throughout the sports world. Baseball analysts are questioning why Murray would pass up an opportunity to play for the A’s this summer and and risk injury playing football. Football experts are applauding his loyalty to the Oklahoma program. To Murray’s credit, he has openly maintained that he was going to play football regardless of where he was drafted.

Obviously the A’s are comfortable with Murray playing football or they wouldn’t have drafted him. They value his talent and his commitment. There is something to be said for keeping your commitment to your teammates regardless of what the sport is. That factored into the small market A’s decision to draft Murray. They need players that are going to be in it for the long haul.

Murray has already signed a five million dollar contract with the A’s which means his long term plans are to play professional baseball. By all accounts, baseball is his first love and if that’s the case, then he should pursue his passion. Murray also loves football and he has proven that by committing to his teammates this fall.

In an era where young people are labeled selfish and out of touch, Murray is a rarity. He could have committed to baseball full time and moved on from Oklahoma. Instead, he is going to stay, play quarterback and make a definitive decision on his future after the season. You can’t help but root this young man. He truly gets it.