Cardinals GM Monti Ossenfort Speaks on QB Controversy at 2026 NFL Draft Combine

Ossenfort declines to commit to Kyler Murray, leaves QB competition open for 2026 season.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Arizona Cardinals general manager Monti Ossenfort addressed the media at the 2026 NFL Draft Combine, fielding questions about the team's quarterback situation. While many have speculated that the Cardinals will move on from seven-year veteran Kyler Murray, Ossenfort did not provide a definitive answer on Murray's status, instead naming him, Jacoby Brissett, and Kedon Slovis as options the organization will evaluate in the offseason. Ossenfort also discussed the team's potential interest in free agent quarterback Malik Willis, who had a strong finish to the 2025 season with the Green Bay Packers.

Why it matters

The Cardinals' quarterback situation has been a major storyline this offseason, with uncertainty surrounding Kyler Murray's future with the team. Ossenfort's comments at the Combine suggest the team is keeping its options open, which could have significant implications for the franchise's direction in 2026 and beyond.

The details

Ossenfort declined to commit to Kyler Murray as the team's starting quarterback for 2026, instead listing him, Jacoby Brissett, and Kedon Slovis as options the team will evaluate. The GM also discussed the team's potential interest in free agent QB Malik Willis, who had a strong finish to the 2025 season with the Green Bay Packers. Experts have projected Willis to receive a lucrative contract in free agency, which could be a risky move for the Cardinals given his limited NFL experience.

  • Ossenfort spoke to the media at the 2026 NFL Draft Combine on February 24, 2026.

The players

Monti Ossenfort

The third-year general manager of the Arizona Cardinals.

Kyler Murray

The seven-year veteran quarterback for the Arizona Cardinals.

Jacoby Brissett

A quarterback option for the Arizona Cardinals.

Kedon Slovis

A quarterback option for the Arizona Cardinals.

Malik Willis

A free agent quarterback who had a strong finish to the 2025 season with the Green Bay Packers.

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What they’re saying

“When asked about the free agent quarterback Malik Willis, Ossenfort detailed the pair's relationship. The 48-year-old was with the Tennessee Titans when the franchise drafted Willis in the 3rd round of the 2022 NFL draft. Ossenfort has paid attention to the 26-year-old's production with the Green Bay Packers this past season and will take a look at him this offseason.”

— Monti Ossenfort, Arizona Cardinals General Manager (yahoo.com)

What’s next

The Cardinals will continue to evaluate their quarterback options, including Kyler Murray, Jacoby Brissett, Kedon Slovis, and potentially Malik Willis, as they determine their starting QB for the 2026 season.

The takeaway

Ossenfort's comments at the Combine suggest the Cardinals are keeping an open mind about their quarterback situation, which could lead to significant changes at the position this offseason. The team's decision on Kyler Murray's future, as well as their potential pursuit of a free agent like Malik Willis, will be crucial in shaping the franchise's direction in 2026 and beyond.