Vikings Emerge as Frontrunners for Kyler Murray After Cardinals Release

Minnesota reportedly plans to make a push for the former No. 1 overall pick as he hits free agency.

Mar. 11, 2026 at 8:51pm

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The Minnesota Vikings are reportedly the frontrunners to sign former Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray after his release from the team. NFL insiders have stated that the Vikings 'plan to make a push for' the 28-year-old, two-time Pro Bowler, who was owed over $36 million in guaranteed money before his release. Murray is expected to take his time evaluating options, but the Vikings are considered the 'team to beat' in the free agency sweepstakes.

Why it matters

The potential addition of Kyler Murray would be a significant move for the Vikings, who are looking to bounce back after an 8-9 season and missed the playoffs in 2025. Murray's talent and experience could provide a major boost to a Vikings offense that already features top receiving threats Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison.

The details

Kyler Murray was the first overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft and was named Offensive Rookie of the Year that season. He made the Pro Bowl in 2020 and 2021 but largely disappointed during his seven-year tenure with the Cardinals, going 38-48-1 as a starter and making just one playoff appearance. Murray missed the second half of the 2025 season with a foot injury, losing his starting job to backup Jacoby Brissett and signaling the end of his time in Arizona.

  • On March 11, 2026, the Arizona Cardinals officially released Kyler Murray.
  • NFL insiders reported on March 11, 2026 that the Minnesota Vikings 'plan to make a push for' signing Kyler Murray.

The players

Kyler Murray

A 28-year-old quarterback who was the first overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft and made two Pro Bowls with the Arizona Cardinals before being released.

J.J. McCarthy

The Vikings' 10th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, who underwhelmed during his first healthy season as the team's starting quarterback in 2025.

Justin Jefferson

A star wide receiver for the Minnesota Vikings, who has emerged as one of the best pass-catching threats in the NFL.

Jordan Addison

A talented young wide receiver who joined the Vikings in 2025 and forms a formidable receiving duo with Justin Jefferson.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

If Kyler Murray signs with the Vikings, he would likely compete for the starting quarterback job with J.J. McCarthy, the team's 2024 first-round draft pick.

The takeaway

The potential addition of Kyler Murray to the Vikings' roster could provide a major boost to their offense and help the team bounce back after missing the playoffs in 2025. However, Murray will have to prove he can regain his Pro Bowl form after a disappointing end to his tenure in Arizona.