Kyler Murray could be playing his final season in Arizona. The 28-year-old quarterback faces an uncertain future despite being the franchise’s No. 1 overall pick in 2019.
Nov 3, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray (1) warms up before the game against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
Nov 3, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray (1) warms up before the game against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
Mike Florio from Pro Football Talk believes Murray could get traded during the 2026 offseason. He went even further by calling it “likely” that the Cardinals move on from their veteran signal-caller.
The reasoning is sensible when considering Arizona’s current leadership structure. “The current regime did not draft him. The current regime did not sign him to a second contract,” Florio wrote.
Every new coaching staff and front office wants to pick their own quarterback. Murray represents the previous regime’s vision, not the current one’s plan.
Arizona has missed the playoffs for three straight seasons under the current leadership. That’s a dangerous position for any front office trying to keep their jobs.
Florio pointed out that one way to secure a fourth season is “to lobby ownership for the ability to draft, to sign, or to trade for a new starter.”
Murray has played only five games this season due to ongoing foot injury problems. He has missed the last three games, including the Week 9 Monday night game against the Dallas Cowboys.
He’s completed 68.3 percent of his passes for 962 yards with six touchdowns against three interceptions. His rushing numbers show 173 yards and one touchdown on the ground.
The injuries have become a pattern throughout Murray’s career. He can’t help the team when he’s sitting on the sideline. Availability matters just as much as talent in the NFL.
His performance has been streaky even when healthy. Murray shows flashes of the star potential that made him the top pick. But consistency remains elusive after six seasons in the league.
He signed a long-term extension in 2022 that runs through 2028, which complicates any potential trade. However, teams have found ways to move big contracts before when both sides want a fresh start.
Kyler Murray at a Crossroads as Cardinals Must Decide Between Staying Put or Trading Their Prime-Age Quarterback
Murray turns 29 next season, which puts him squarely in his prime years for a quarterback. The problem is that his prime is arriving without any playoff success to show for it.
Six seasons should be enough time to establish yourself as a franchise cornerstone. Murray hasn’t reached that level despite obvious physical gifts. His ability to throw accurately and run effectively makes him a dual threat.
A change of scenery might unlock something different in Murray’s game. Some quarterbacks thrive after leaving the team that drafted them. New systems and fresh coaching voices can spark improvement.
Several NFL teams will likely show interest if Arizona makes Murray available. Teams searching for quarterback help always outnumber quality options on the market. Murray’s age and talent would attract multiple suitors.
The Cardinals could use draft capital to rebuild their roster. Trading Murray would give them resources to address multiple positions while finding their next franchise quarterback.
Arizona’s front office faces a critical decision this offseason. They can stick with Murray and hope things finally click, or they can start fresh with their own choice at quarterback.
The latter option looks increasingly appealing as another disappointing season unfolds. Murray’s trade value might never be higher than right now before he gets another year older.
Expect loud rumors to swirl around Murray once the season ends. The offseason trade market could feature one of the biggest names available in recent memory. Arizona’s direction at quarterback will define their entire future.