Kyler Murray Visits Vikings After Cardinals Release

Former No. 1 pick meets with Minnesota after being cut by Arizona

Mar. 12, 2026 at 6:33pm

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The Kyler Murray era in Arizona has come to an end, as the former No. 1 overall pick was released by the Cardinals despite being owed $36.8 million in guaranteed salary. Murray is now visiting the Minnesota Vikings, where he could potentially join the team as a replacement or backup for starting quarterback Kirk Cousins.

Why it matters

Murray's release by the Cardinals is a surprising move, as he was a two-time Pro Bowler and the 2019 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year. His visit with the Vikings could signal a new chapter in his career, as Minnesota looks to bolster its quarterback depth behind the injury-prone Cousins.

The details

Murray was released by the Cardinals at the start of the new league year, despite the team owing him $36.8 million in guaranteed salary. During his time in Arizona, Murray had a 67% career completion percentage, along with 20,460 passing yards, 121 passing touchdowns, and 32 rushing touchdowns. However, his relationship with the franchise soured after a controversial contract clause and subsequent injuries, including an ACL tear and a foot injury.

  • Kyler Murray was released by the Arizona Cardinals at the start of the new league year on March 12, 2026.
  • Murray is now visiting the Minnesota Vikings on March 12, 2026.

The players

Kyler Murray

A former No. 1 overall pick in the NFL Draft, Kyler Murray was released by the Arizona Cardinals despite being owed $36.8 million in guaranteed salary. He is now visiting the Minnesota Vikings as a potential replacement or backup for their starting quarterback, Kirk Cousins.

Kirk Cousins

The starting quarterback for the Minnesota Vikings, Cousins has struggled with injuries in recent seasons, including an ankle sprain, concussion, and broken hand. The Vikings are looking to improve their quarterback depth, and Murray's visit could signal a potential move to join the team.

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What’s next

The Vikings will need to decide whether to sign Kyler Murray to a contract, and how that would impact their current starting quarterback, Kirk Cousins, and head coach, Mike McCarthy.

The takeaway

Kyler Murray's release by the Cardinals and subsequent visit with the Vikings is a surprising development in the NFL offseason. The move could signal a fresh start for Murray, as well as a potential shakeup in the Vikings' quarterback room and coaching staff.