It’s a new era in the desert. As of March 2026, the Arizona Cardinals have officially moved on from the Kyler Murray era, releasing him earlier in the month. While [Murray has already signed a one-year “prove-it” deal with the Vikings,](https://lastwordonsports.com/nfl/2026/03/12/former-first-overall-pick-agrees-to-contract-with-the-vikings/) the Cardinals are pushing towards a deliberate, veteran-heavy bridge phase.
But what is the plan moving forward, [post Kyler Murray?](https://lastwordonsports.com/nfl/2026/03/04/fantasy-football-2026-kyler-murray-released-perfect-fit-for-atl/)
The Arizona Cardinals and Their Road Map
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### Plans at Quarterback
Quarterback Jacoby Brissett has been brought back to serve as the potential starter for 2026. Although he went 1-11 as a starter, the front office valued his stability and professionalism for a transitioning roster.
Currently, Arizona holds the third overall pick in the 2026 NFL draft. Many journalists expect Arizona to choose a quarterback. But there is also a belief that the Cardinals are looking to bulk up their roster and then possibly select a quarterback by 2027.
### Finances in the Desert
Moving on from Murray was not cheap for the Arizona Cardinals. Because of the structure of his massive 2022 extension, the Cardinals are still spending. Arizona is reportedly paying roughly $35.5 million of Murray’s salary in 2026 while he is with Minnesota. By 2027, the Cardinals will finally be unburdened by his contract, allowing them to be aggressive in free agency.
### Smashmouth-Style Game
New head coach Mike LaFleur is shifting the offensive philosophy away from Murray’s freestyle play toward a more structured, physical system.
* Offensive line: The team signed Pro Bowl guard Isaac Seumalo to anchor the left side of the offensive line that struggled in 2025.
* Weaponry: The Arizona Cardinals are surrounding their young core with veteran players. While Marvin Harrison Jr., Michael Wilson, and Trey McBride are great players, they still need help. The Cardinals acquired wideout Kendrick Bourne and running back Tyler Allgeier to get more help to whoever the quarterback might be.
The ultimate goal is for the Cardinals to create a quarterback-friendly environment. By doing this, they are preparing a future young passer to use the talent around him, rather than trying to do everything by himself.
### Preparation for 2027
Many analysts are foreshadowing that 2026 is a functional rebuild. The front office is intentionally signing older veterans. With the average age around 30.1 for free agency in the desert, management is now working to sign the veterans to short deals.
This allows them to stay competitive and ‘fix the culture’ under LaFleur without tethering the team to long-term, inconsistent contracts.
### Conclusion
While the Arizona Cardinals have had numerous rebuilds in the past, many fans have grown impatient. But unlike several of these past rebuilds, this one may not be as long. The team has the foundation, with the exception of the quarterback spot, filled out. If they can look for a passer in either 2026 or 2027, the Cardinals can be better than what they were last season. It will take time. But it can be done.