The Arizona Cardinals officially informed quarterback Kyler Murray on March 3, 2026, that hewould be released at the start of the new league year. The move is expected to become official on March 11, 2026, unless the team finds a trade partner before that date. This decision marks the end of a seven-year era that began when Arizona selected Murray with the first overall pick in 2019.
Arizona Cardinals Kyler Murray
Nov 23, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray (1) against the Jacksonville Jaguars at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Murray addressed the situation by posting a farewell message to the fans and the community on social media. Hespoke about his deep desire to lead the franchise to its first championship in decades. “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. He expressed gratitude for the support his family received during his time in the desert.
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. I wish this community and my…
— Kyler Murray (@K1) March 3, 2026
The quarterback also shared optimism about his future in the league despite recent injury struggles. Murray missed significant time over the last few seasons due to a torn ACL and a recent foot injury. “I truly believe my best ball is in front of me and I look forward to proving it,” he added. He concluded his statement with the word “Godspeed.”
During his tenure, Murray started 87 games and led the team to one playoff appearance in 2021. He finished his time in Arizona with 121 passing touchdowns and over 20,000 passing yards. However, a 3-14 record in 2025 and a coaching staff change led the organization to seek a fresh start.
Because of guarantees in his contract, Murray is owed $36.8 million for the 2026 season. This financial structure means he will likely sign a team-friendly deal with a new club while Arizona pays the remainder. Several teams in need of a veteran quarterback are expected to pursue him in free agency.
NFL fans slammed Kyler Murray for his video game addiction
The response from the public was immediate and many fans focused on his habits and reputation.
One fan questioned his focus bysaying, “Your work ethic is playing video games and thinking you know more than your coaches, surprised you lasted this long.”
A second fan expressed a very negative view of his performance bystating, “You were a complete failure.”
A third fan suggested the player should return to his hobbies andtold him to “Go back to playing video games.”
A fourth fan compared his work ethic to other athletes andclaimed, “It’s because you cared more about video games than your actual career.”
Finally, a fifth fan described bynoting, “He’s like Bieber, overhyped tiny flop.”
Kyler Murray enters free agency looking for a new team while the Arizona Cardinals prepare for a complete roster rebuild.