Kyler Murray hasn't been officially released by the Arizona Cardinals, but there's already a frontrunner emerging for him this offseason.
The Cardinals reportedly informed Murray on Tuesday that he'll be released on the first day of the new league year. While the front office still owes him $36.8 million in guarantees for the 2026 season, another $19.5 million would be guaranteed if he's on Arizona's roster by March 15. With Murray set to hit the open market very soon, he's released a farewell message for the organization and its fan base.
"To everyone that supported me and showed kindness to my family and I during my time in AZ, from the bottom of my heart, thank you. I wanted nothing more than to be the one to end the 77 year drought for this organization, I am sorry I failed us," Murray wrote. "I wish this community and my brothers nothing but the best. I am no stranger to adversity, I am prepared for whatever's next. I trust in God and my work ethic. I truly believe my best ball is in front of me and I look forward to proving it. Godspeed."
Shortly after Murray announced his departure, ESPN's Kevin Seifert mentioned the Minnesota Vikings as an option for the Pro Bowl quarterback.
"Kyler Murray is at or near the top of the Vikings' QB wish list this offseason," Seifert said. "This news brings him one step closer to the open market."
Oct 5, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray (1) warms up before their game against the Tennessee Titans at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
A huge need for the Vikings.
The Vikings didn't see enough development from J.J. McCarthy this past fall to feel great about his development. The former No. 10 pick from Michigan completed 57.6% of his passes during the 2025 season for 1,632 yards with 11 touchdowns and 12 interceptions.
Before the Cardinals even informed Murray of their decision, Seifert said the Vikings would take a big swing on a veteran quarterback.
"In the big picture, McCarthy is a talented player who just turned 23 and has a total of 10 NFL starts. Few NFL teams would give up on a quarterback with that profile, and many team builders are particularly enamored with optimizing a quarterback's rookie contract. Adofo-Mensah was one of them, but his departure is a reminder of the range of outcomes that approach can lead to," Seifert said. "If anything, these events increase the chances that the Vikings will take a big swing at finding a veteran quarterback who could start in 2026. The only thing more damaging than making the mistakes the Vikings made last season would be to repeat them this year."
Now the Vikings can pursue Murray without having to worry about giving up any picks in a potential trade.
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