The Arizona Cardinals and quarterback Kyler Murray appear headed for a permanent split before the new league year begins on March 11, 2026. General Manager Monti Ossenfort recently addressed the situation by stating that “all options are on the table” regarding the future of the former first-overall draft pick.
“Just like everything else on the roster, open conversations in this building,” Cardinals coach Mike LaFleur said, via theteam’s official website. “No timeframe on that.”
While the team has not ruled out a trade, industry experts believe a release is the most probable outcome.
Nov 3, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray (1) walks off the field after the game between the Dallas Cowboys and the Arizona Cardinals at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
Nov 3, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray (1) walks off the field after the game between the Dallas Cowboys and the Arizona Cardinals at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
The primary reason for this move is a massive financial commitment scheduled for mid-March. If Murray remains on the roster by March 15, his 2027 salary of $19.5 million becomes fully guaranteed.
Furthermore, Murray is currently set to count for $52.7 million against the 2026 salary cap. By releasing or trading him now, the Cardinals can avoid these long-term costs and begin a complete rebuild at quarterback.
Trade talks have been difficult because of Murray’s expensive contract. Rival teams are hesitant to give up draft picks for a player they might be able to sign for less money as a free agent. Consequently, the Cardinals may be forced to cut him to gain immediate cap relief.
If Kyler Murray becomes a free agent, several teams will likely compete for his services. The Minnesota Vikings are often mentioned as a top destination. Other teams looking for veteran leadership, such as the New York Jets or Miami Dolphins, could also join the pursuit.
Kyler Murray 2025 season breakdown
Kyler Murrayplayed only five games during the 2025 season before a foot injury ended his year. His performance during that limited time showed flashes of his mobility and arm strength, but the team struggled to find consistency.
During his five starts in 2025, Murray completed 962 passing yards. He threw six touchdowns and three interceptions. His passer rating for the year was 88.6. On the ground, he added 173 rushing yards and scored one rushing touchdown.
These numbers were a decline from his 2024 season, where he played all 17 games and threw for over 3,800 yards.
The Cardinals now face a tight deadline to make their final decision. If no trade partner emerges in the coming days, the franchise will likely terminate his contract.
This would allow Murray to find a new team immediately while giving Arizona the flexibility to draft a new quarterback or pursue a different veteran in free agency.