Cleveland Browns
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Browns not expected to pursue Kyler Murray.
The Arizona Cardinals released quarterback Kyler Murray, and the Cleveland Browns could be one of the many teams that pursue him.
Murray is a former first overall pick who struggled in Arizona. Due to Murray being released, he’ll sign for league minimum as he’s still getting paid by the Cardinals, so several teams should be after him.
However, Murray will look for a starting job, and Browns NFL insider Zac Jackson of The Athletic believes Cleveland won’t pursue the former first overall pick.
“The Browns are at least exploring their quarterback options,” Jackson wrote. “And they’re probably value shopping, which makes Murray a potential target given that he’s going to play on something close to a minimum contract in 2026. But Murray is probably looking for a clear-cut starting role as he tries to revive his career, and other spots might offer both a better supporting cast and a more defined role at this early stage of the offseason.
“The Browns have a developmental option in Shedeur Sanders, a last-resort option in Deshaun Watson and several different ways the rest of the situation might go depending on what new coach Todd Monken thinks — and Monken is keeping his true thoughts and evaluations to himself. The Browns almost certainly have discussed Murray and might have further conversations, but it’s hard to imagine an immediate marriage between the sides.”
With the Browns unlikely to give Murray a starting job, Jackson believes the former first overall pick will sign elsewhere.
Browns to be Involved in QB Market
Cleveland has Deshaun Watson, Shedeur Sanders, and Dillon Gabriel under contract, but the team is expected to add a quarterback.
The Browns have been searching for a quarterback for years. General manager Andrew Berry said he expects the team to be active in the quarterback market.
“I would anticipate that there’s at least the chance that we would be a little bit more aggressive relative. I’ll say this, more aggressive than last year. But it’ll be targeted and opportunistic,” Berry said. “I think realistically we may be one more offseason away from being hyper-aggressive in that window. But if there’s something that fits us, fits our roster, fits our timeline, then it’s certainly a swing we’ll take.”
Browns head coach Todd Monken, meanwhile, said the team will do its due diligence on the quarterback market.
“I wouldn’t say it’s important to (add a quarterback),” Monken said. “But we’re going to do our due diligence to make sure that our roster, that we put ourselves in the best position we can to score points, which starts with that position.”
For now, Cleveland continues to gauge the market for a quarterback.
Murray Issues Statement After Being Released
Arizona announced its plans to release Murray ahead of the new league year.
After the news came out, Murray took to X to issue a heartfelt statement to the Cardinals fans.
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’m sorry I failed us,” Murray wrote.
“I wish this community and my brothers nothing but the best. I’m no stranger to adversity. I’m 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.”
Murray went 38-48-1 as the Cardinals’ starting quarterback and led them to the playoffs once.