Kyler Murray Released by Cardinals: Contract Details, Trade Attempts, and Future Outlook

The end of a tumultuous era as the Cardinals part ways with their former No. 1 overall pick

Apr. 10, 2026 at 6:34am

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A cubist-style painting depicting a football quarterback's throwing motion broken down into overlapping geometric shapes and planes, using the vibrant colors of the Arizona Cardinals' team palette.The release of Kyler Murray by the Arizona Cardinals marks the end of a turbulent era, raising questions about the quarterback's future and the financial implications for both player and team.Phoenix Today

In a shocking move, the Arizona Cardinals have officially released quarterback Kyler Murray, marking the end of a turbulent tenure for both the player and the team. Despite his undeniable talent, Murray's time in Arizona was marred by injuries and unmet expectations, leading to the Cardinals' decision to part ways and avoid further financial commitments.

Why it matters

The release of Kyler Murray has significant financial implications for the Cardinals, who owe him a guaranteed $36.8 million in 2026 and an additional $19.5 million in guarantees for 2027. This decision, while costly, allows the team to move on and explore other options at the quarterback position. For Murray, the move sets the stage for an intriguing free agency period as he looks to revive his career and silence his critics.

The details

The Cardinals informed Murray of his release, with the transaction set to take place on March 11, the first day of the league year. Despite his undeniable talent, Murray's tenure in Arizona was marred by injuries, as he missed 21 of 51 possible games over the past three seasons. The Cardinals made the playoffs just once during his tenure, never advancing past the first round. Despite these setbacks, Murray earned two Pro Bowl selections (2020, 2021) and threw for 20,460 yards with 121 touchdowns and 60 interceptions, completing 67.1% of his passes.

  • Murray was informed of his release on March 11, 2026, the first day of the league year.
  • The Cardinals owe Murray a guaranteed $36.8 million in 2026, and an additional $19.5 million in guarantees would have been triggered for 2027 if he remained on the roster past March 15.

The players

Kyler Murray

The former No. 1 overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, who had a tumultuous tenure with the Arizona Cardinals marked by injuries and unmet expectations.

Arizona Cardinals

The NFL team that has officially parted ways with quarterback Kyler Murray, ending a controversial era for both the player and the organization.

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What they’re saying

“I wanted nothing more than to be the one to end the 77-year drought for this organization. I am sorry I failed us.”

— Kyler Murray

“I truly believe my best ball is in front of me.”

— Kyler Murray

What’s next

As Murray embarks on the next chapter of his career, the question remains: Can he live up to his potential and silence the doubters, or will injuries continue to derail his promise?

The takeaway

The release of Kyler Murray by the Arizona Cardinals marks the end of a tumultuous era, raising questions about his future and the financial implications for both the player and the team. This decision, while costly for the Cardinals, allows them to move on and explore other options at the quarterback position, while Murray looks to revive his career and prove his doubters wrong.