Vikings Linked to Former No. 1 Overall QB

Kyler Murray emerges as frontrunner to join Minnesota in free agency

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The Minnesota Vikings' quarterback situation has become a major talking point in the NFL as free agency approaches. While names like Kirk Cousins and Anthony Richardson have been mentioned, former No. 1 overall pick Kyler Murray has emerged as the clear frontrunner to land in Minnesota, according to league sources.

Why it matters

The Vikings are looking to upgrade at quarterback after a disappointing 2025 season. Signing Murray, a dynamic playmaker, could provide a major boost to their offense and help them compete in the NFC North.

The details

Murray remains under contract with the Arizona Cardinals until the new league year begins on Wednesday. Once he hits free agency, the Vikings are expected to pursue him aggressively, with NFL Network insider Tom Pelissero noting that "it makes a lot of sense" for Murray to take advantage of this opportunity as a first-time free agent. The expectation is that Murray will sign a one-year minimum deal, similar to what Russell Wilson did in 2024 with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

  • The legal tampering window and free agency are set to begin soon.
  • Murray is under contract with the Cardinals until the new league year starts on Wednesday.

The players

Kyler Murray

A former No. 1 overall pick who is expected to be released by the Arizona Cardinals and become a free agent.

J.J. McCarthy

The current starting quarterback for the Minnesota Vikings.

Kirk Cousins

A veteran quarterback who has been linked to the Vikings in free agency.

Anthony Richardson

A quarterback prospect who has been mentioned as a potential target for the Vikings.

Kevin O'Connell

The head coach of the Minnesota Vikings, who has guided strong campaigns from other quarterbacks in the past.

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What they’re saying

“If you're Kyler and his agent, it makes a lot of sense to take advantage of this. He's never been a free agent before. He's not interfaced with a lot of teams and executives since he selected in the draft back in 2019 and for Kyler, who's going to be a free agent in 2027 after taking a one-year minimum deal this year it makes sense ... to take his time and explore his options here before deciding to take the next important step in his career.”

— Tom Pelissero, NFL Network insider (NFL Network)

What’s next

The Vikings will need to finalize a contract with Kyler Murray once he officially becomes a free agent on Wednesday. If they are unable to land Murray, Geno Smith is expected to be their fallback option.

The takeaway

The Vikings' pursuit of Kyler Murray represents a high-risk, high-reward move that could significantly boost their offense and playoff chances if it pans out. However, the team will need to navigate Murray's contract situation and ensure he is a good fit in Minnesota's system.