Andrew Buller-Russ
Heading into the offseason, there was some speculation that the Arizona Cardinals could move on from Kyler Murray. The biggest question was whether the Cardinals would be able to find a trade partner to take on the remainder of the five-year, $230 million contract he signed in 2022.
We now have our answer.
On Tuesday, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport revealed that the Cardinals will be releasing Murray on the first day of the new league year (March 11). Thus, the 28-year-old Murray will have a chance to hand-select his next team.
Of course, the Cardinals are the only team he’s known since arriving as the first overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft. Murray has earned Pro Bowl honors twice in his seven seasons of play, leading the Cardinals to the playoffs just once.
Below, we evaluate which teams could make a play for Murray, who’s already set to earn $36.8 million from the Cardinals in 2026. Thus, Murray is expected to sign a contract for the veteran minimum, making him an affordable signing for literally every team in the NFL. Still, some teams make more sense than others.
Atlanta Falcons
The Falcons’ potential QB need is two-fold. Michael Penix Jr. is still recovering from a torn ACL suffered on Nov. 16. Plus, the Falcons’ new regime can’t be entirely sold on a player who’s completed just 59.6% of his passes in 12 starts. After moving on from Kirk Cousins, the Falcons will need another QB, but someone like Murray may be a bit too high-profile, unless the Falcons have strong doubts about Penix’s future.
Cleveland Browns
Todd Monken just led an offense with a talented dual-threat QB. Thus, the blueprint has already been laid for Cleveland to find success with Murray too. Except that he may have hesitations about joining a franchise that has reached the postseason just twice since 2003.
Miami Dolphins
The Dolphins have moved on from Tyreek Hill, but this offense still features a lot of speed with Jaylen Waddle and De’Von Achane. Murray would bring even more speed to South Beach while, importantly, providing an affordable QB replacement for the also expensive Tagovailoa. Miami may have its eyes and hearts set on signing Malik Willis, but will he be too rich for their blood?
New York Jets
The Jets could also have their eyes on Willis, but didn’t they try gambling on a high-potential dual-threat QB last offseason? Murray will be far less expensive, and with 87 NFL starts in his career, he’s far more experienced too. Plus, with Garrett Wilson and Breece Hall, the Jets have some fun toys to work with.
Minnesota Vikings
Interestingly enough, Murray grew up as a Vikings fan. Now that he has a chance to pick his team for the first time in his NFL career, could he pick his favorite one? The Vikings are already seeking a low-cost veteran with a high ceiling, and mobility would be a plus. Murray certainly fits the bill, and since he gets to pick teams, who wouldn’t want to play in a QB-friendly offense coached by Kevin O’Connell that also features one of the game’s best receivers in Justin Jefferson?
Related: 5 Likeliest Kirk Cousins Free Agency Landing Spots After Falcons Release
