Kyler Murray's Uncertain Future with the Arizona Cardinals
Kyler Murray's tenure with the Arizona Cardinals is in question after a challenging 2025 season marred by injuries. Missing 12 games due to a foot injury sustained against the Tennessee Titans in Week 5, Murray's absence paved the way for Jacoby Brissett to step in as the starting quarterback.
New Leadership, New Decisions
With Matt LaFleur at the helm as the Cardinals' new coach, the direction for Murray remains unclear. In a recent press conference, LaFleur emphasized the importance of open dialogue within the organization, stating, "Just like everything else on the roster, open conversations in this building," while refraining from setting a specific timeline for decisions regarding Murray's future.
Murray's Season at a Glance
Murray's limited season saw him starting just five games, achieving a 2-3 record. He completed 110 of 161 passes, totaling 962 yards, with six touchdowns and three interceptions.
For the first time in his seven-season career, he fell short of 1,000 passing yards. Although he was reportedly cleared to return after three games, the team opted to place him on injured reserve, officially ending his season on December 5.
Brissett's Performance
In Murray's absence, Jacoby Brissett delivered career-high numbers in his first year with Arizona. Completing 315 of 485 passes for 3,366 yards, Brissett recorded 23 touchdowns against eight interceptions.
He also added 168 rushing yards and a touchdown on 38 carries. Despite these impressive stats, Brissett's record stood at 1-11, highlighting the challenges faced by the team.
The Financial Implications
The financial stakes are significant. Murray is guaranteed $36.8 million for the 2026 season.
If he remains on the roster beyond March 15, his base salary for 2027, amounting to $19.5 million, will also be guaranteed. This financial commitment adds a layer of complexity to the decision-making process for the Cardinals.
Potential Landing Spot: Indianapolis Colts
Rumors are swirling about Murray's potential move to the Indianapolis Colts. NFL analyst Moe Moton from Bleacher Report has connected the dots, especially given the uncertainty surrounding the Colts' current quarterback, Daniel Jones. Recovering from an ACL tear, Jones' availability for the start of the season remains questionable.
Moton suggests that Murray could be a more reliable option for Indianapolis, assuming he has fully recovered from his foot injury. With his proven track record, Murray might offer the Colts the stability they need at quarterback.
As the offseason unfolds, the future of Kyler Murray with the Cardinals remains a pivotal storyline. Whether he stays in Arizona or finds a new home with the Colts, his next move will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.