Arizona Cardinals QB Kyler Murray Likely to Be Released

Vikings among teams expected to pursue Murray if he hits free agent market

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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According to reports, Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray is likely to be released this offseason, barring a last-minute trade. The Minnesota Vikings are seen as a potential landing spot for Murray if he becomes available, as they are closely monitoring the veteran quarterback market. Murray, a former first overall pick, is coming off an injury-plagued 2025 season but has shown promise in the past, including a Pro Bowl campaign in 2024.

Why it matters

The Vikings are in the market for a new starting quarterback this offseason, with Kirk Cousins likely to be released. Acquiring Murray on a low-cost, one-year "prove-it" deal could represent a high-upside move for Minnesota, as he would have the chance to revitalize his career playing in Kevin O'Connell's QB-friendly offense and alongside star receiver Justin Jefferson.

The details

Murray went 2-3 as the starter for the Cardinals in 2025, completing 68.3% of his passes for 962 yards, 6 touchdowns, and 3 interceptions. He also added 173 rushing yards and 1 rushing touchdown. Injuries have been an issue for Murray over the past four seasons, as he has appeared in more than 11 games just once during that span. However, in 2024 he started all 17 games, posting an 8-9 record with 3,851 passing yards, 21 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions, plus 572 rushing yards and 5 rushing touchdowns.

  • In 2025, Murray started 5 games for the Cardinals before being replaced by Jacoby Brissett.
  • In 2024, Murray started all 17 games for the Cardinals.

The players

Kyler Murray

A former first overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, Kyler Murray is a two-time Pro Bowl quarterback for the Arizona Cardinals who is likely to be released this offseason.

Kirk Cousins

The current starting quarterback for the Minnesota Vikings, who is expected to be released by the team this offseason.

J.J. McCarthy

The Vikings' current backup quarterback, who could compete with Kyler Murray for the starting job if Murray is signed.

Kevin O'Connell

The head coach of the Minnesota Vikings, who runs a QB-friendly offensive system that could benefit Kyler Murray.

Justin Jefferson

The star wide receiver for the Minnesota Vikings, who could provide a valuable target for Kyler Murray if he joins the team.

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What they’re saying

“There's going to be an unprecedented number of starting-caliber quarterbacks available for very little money. ... You've got Tua Tagovailoa, likely released. You got Kyler Murray, a likely release from the Arizona Cardinals absent of a last-minute trade, which I would be a little surprised about.”

— Ian Rapoport, NFL Network reporter (NFL Network)

“The odd quarterback landscape of this offseason makes it difficult to predict where the Vikings land, but if and when someone such as Geno Smith or Kyler Murray gets cut, I could see Minnesota pursuing that kind of passer on a low-cost, one-year prove-it deal.”

— Dan Graziano, ESPN reporter (ESPN)

What’s next

If Kyler Murray is released by the Arizona Cardinals, the Minnesota Vikings are expected to be among the teams pursuing him as a potential low-cost, high-upside option to compete for their starting quarterback job.

The takeaway

Acquiring Kyler Murray on a short-term, team-friendly deal could represent a savvy move for the Vikings, who are in the market for a new starting quarterback this offseason. Murray's injury history and inconsistent play in recent years make him a risky proposition, but the potential rewards of reviving his career in Minnesota's QB-friendly offense alongside star receiver Justin Jefferson could outweigh the risks.