Kyler Murray's Future in Arizona Looks Uncertain as Trade Rumors Swirl
GLENDALE - When a new head coach steps in, one of the first questions is always about the quarterback. But at Mike LaFleur’s introductory press conference with the Arizona Cardinals, it was what wasn’t said about Kyler Murray that made headlines.
LaFleur confirmed he’s been in contact with the 28-year-old quarterback, but stopped short of committing to him as the team’s starter for 2026. That’s a notable omission when you're talking about a former No. 1 overall pick and two-time Pro Bowler who's been the face of the franchise for the better part of a decade.
And it’s only fueling the buzz that Murray could be on his way out of Arizona - with the New York Jets emerging as one of the most talked-about potential landing spots.
But not everyone’s sold on that idea.
On his podcast Flight Deck, ESPN’s Rich Cimini shared that a former Cardinals teammate of Murray’s strongly advised against the Jets making a move for him. While the player wasn’t named, the message was clear: “You don’t want Kyler Murray as your quarterback.”
That’s a tough critique of a player who’s not only been a captain for six seasons but was once seen as a franchise cornerstone. The concerns aren’t new - questions about Murray’s durability have followed him throughout his NFL career.
And fair or not, he’s also battled a reputation for being less than fully committed to the grind. That infamous film study clause in his contract - which required him to spend a minimum number of hours watching tape - only added fuel to the narrative.
But to Murray’s credit, there’s another side to the story.
After tearing his ACL late in the 2022 season, he worked his way back in under a year - a recovery timeline that doesn’t happen without serious dedication. And in 2024, he played all 17 games, showing flashes of the dynamic dual-threat talent that made him a Pro Bowler early in his career.
Still, the momentum didn’t last. A foot injury last season sidelined him again, and when he returned, he found himself benched in favor of veteran Jacoby Brissett. That move signaled a shift in the relationship between Murray and the Cardinals - and likely marked the beginning of the end for his time in Arizona.
Now, it feels like both sides are eyeing a fresh start. But if Murray’s former teammates are telling front offices to steer clear, it could complicate trade talks.
His talent isn’t in question - when healthy and locked in, he’s one of the most electrifying quarterbacks in the league. But durability concerns and lingering doubts about leadership make him a gamble, especially for a team like the Jets that’s looking for stability at the position.
Meanwhile, the Cardinals are continuing to reshape their coaching staff. The team has reportedly requested an interview with Texans defensive backs coach Dino Vasso for their defensive coordinator opening - another sign that LaFleur is putting his stamp on this roster from top to bottom.
As for Murray, his next chapter is still unwritten. But one thing’s clear: the silence from Arizona’s new head coach speaks volumes.