Kyler Murray's Exit Opens Opportunity for Cardinals

With the star QB's departure, the team may turn to rookie Ty Simpson or pursue veteran Aaron Rodgers.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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The Arizona Cardinals are moving on from quarterback Kyler Murray after a tumultuous 2025 season that saw him benched just before a "Monday Night Football" game against the Dallas Cowboys. This marks the end of Murray's tenure with the team, opening up opportunities for other quarterbacks like rookie Ty Simpson or the potential pursuit of veteran Aaron Rodgers.

Why it matters

The Cardinals' decision to part ways with Murray, their former first-round draft pick, signals a major shift in the team's direction and leadership. This move could have significant implications for the franchise's future, as they look to rebuild around a new quarterback and coaching staff.

The details

Murray was benched by the Cardinals just before a "Monday Night Football" game against the Cowboys last season, which many saw as the final straw in the team's relationship with the star QB. The Cardinals are now expected to either turn to rookie Ty Simpson or potentially pursue veteran free agent Aaron Rodgers to be their new starting quarterback.

  • The Cardinals benched Kyler Murray just before a "Monday Night Football" game against the Cowboys in the 2025 season.

The players

Kyler Murray

The former first-round draft pick of the Arizona Cardinals who is now departing the team after a tumultuous 2025 season.

Ty Simpson

A rookie quarterback who could be in line to take over as the starter for the Cardinals following Murray's exit.

Aaron Rodgers

The veteran quarterback who could be a potential free agent target for the Cardinals as they look to rebuild their roster.

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What’s next

The Cardinals will need to decide whether to hand the starting job to Ty Simpson or pursue a veteran free agent like Aaron Rodgers to be their new quarterback.

The takeaway

The Cardinals' decision to part ways with Kyler Murray marks a major turning point for the franchise, as they look to rebuild around a new quarterback and coaching staff in the hopes of returning to contention in the NFC West.