Vikings Host Kyler Murray for Free Agent Visit After Cardinals Release

Murray, the 2019 No. 1 overall pick, is looking for a new team after being cut by Arizona.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 7:48pm

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The Minnesota Vikings are hosting former Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray on a free agent visit, according to a person with knowledge of the situation. Murray, the first overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, was recently released by the Cardinals despite having a $36.8 million guaranteed salary for the upcoming season. The Vikings are looking to add depth at the quarterback position behind their 2024 first-round pick J.J. McCarthy, whose injuries and inconsistency have raised questions about his long-term viability as the starter.

Why it matters

Murray's visit with the Vikings is significant as he looks to revive his NFL career after being cut by the Cardinals. As a two-time Pro Bowler with a strong arm and dynamic running ability, Murray could provide the Vikings with a high-upside option to potentially challenge or complement McCarthy if he can stay healthy and regain his previous form.

The details

The Vikings are hosting Murray on a free agent visit as they search for quarterback depth behind McCarthy, their 2024 first-round pick. Despite his past success, including being named the 2019 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year, Murray's tenure with the Cardinals was marred by injuries, questions about his work ethic, and a contentious contract dispute. The Cardinals ultimately decided to part ways with Murray, making him available as a free agent.

  • The meeting between Murray and the Vikings took place on Thursday, March 12, 2026.
  • Murray was released by the Cardinals at the start of the new league year on Wednesday, March 11, 2026.

The players

Kyler Murray

A former first overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft who was recently released by the Arizona Cardinals despite having a $36.8 million guaranteed salary for the upcoming season.

J.J. McCarthy

The Minnesota Vikings' 2024 first-round draft pick at quarterback, whose injuries and inconsistency have raised questions about his long-term viability as the team's starter.

Kevin O'Connell

The head coach of the Minnesota Vikings, who is looking to add depth at the quarterback position behind McCarthy.

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What they’re saying

“I truly believe my best ball is in front of me and I look forward to proving it.”

— Kyler Murray (Kyler Murray's farewell post on social media)

What’s next

The Vikings will evaluate Murray's fit with the team and determine if he could be a viable option to challenge or complement J.J. McCarthy as the starting quarterback.

The takeaway

Kyler Murray's visit with the Vikings represents a potential fresh start for the former first overall pick, who is looking to revive his NFL career after being released by the Cardinals. If Murray can stay healthy and regain his previous form, he could provide the Vikings with a high-upside option at quarterback to complement or potentially challenge their 2024 first-round pick J.J. McCarthy.