Kyler Murray’s future in Arizona is getting murkier by the day, and the signs are pointing toward a potential split between the Cardinals and their former No. 1 overall pick.
Murray, a two-time Pro Bowler, was limited to just five games last season due to a foot injury. It’s the latest setback in a stretch that’s seen him suit up for a full season only once in the past four years. Health has been a recurring hurdle, and it’s starting to shape the conversation around his long-term fit in Arizona.
Back in July 2022, the Cardinals doubled down on Murray, handing him a five-year, $230.5 million extension. But now, with two years left on that deal - and a hefty $36.8 million guaranteed salary in 2026, plus another $19.5 million locked in for next year - Arizona’s options are tightening.
NFL insider Albert Breer weighed in on the situation during an appearance with Colin Cowherd, suggesting that the Cardinals may be forced to simply move on - not via trade, but by cutting Murray outright. That’s a big statement, especially when you consider the financial implications, but it speaks to just how complicated this situation has become.
Breer floated Minnesota as a potential landing spot, drawing a comparison to Sam Darnold’s career resurgence in 2024. The idea: Murray, still just 26, could find new life in a system that plays to his strengths - mobility, creativity, and a quick-strike arm - without the weight of a franchise on his shoulders. He also mentioned the Jets as another team that could see Murray as a high-upside reclamation project.
The challenge for Arizona is that Murray’s contract makes both trading and keeping him difficult. The guaranteed money limits flexibility, and if no team is willing to take on that deal, the Cardinals might have no choice but to release him and let the market decide his value.
But Minnesota isn’t the only team being linked to Murray. Bleacher Report’s Moe Moton pointed to the Indianapolis Colts as a potential fit.
The Colts are dealing with uncertainty at quarterback, as Daniel Jones continues to rehab from an ACL tear suffered late last season. There’s no guarantee he’ll be ready for Week 1, and that opens the door for a more reliable Plan B.
According to Moton, Murray could offer more stability and a stronger résumé than Jones - assuming, of course, that he’s fully recovered from the foot injury that derailed his 2025 campaign. For a Colts team looking to stay competitive in the AFC, Murray could be a worthwhile gamble.
So where does that leave us? The Cardinals are staring down a tough decision.
Murray’s talent has never been in question - when healthy, he’s one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the league. But between the injuries and the contract, Arizona may be reaching the end of the road.
If they do cut ties, don’t be surprised if a team like Minnesota or Indianapolis takes a shot. Reclamation projects don’t always pan out, but when the upside is this high, someone’s bound to roll the dice.