Could Kyler Murray Be the Vikings’ Next Big Swing at QB? Here’s What We’re Hearing
The Minnesota Vikings have been circling the quarterback carousel for a while now, and with the 2025 season winding down, it’s clear the ride isn’t over yet. The moment Kirk Cousins decided to test free agency back in 2024, Minnesota became one of the more intriguing QB destinations in the league.
A talented roster, a progressive offensive mind in Kevin O’Connell, and a fanbase hungry for a long-term answer under center? It’s a pretty attractive setup.
The Vikings have already tried a few different paths. Sam Darnold got a crash course in O’Connell’s quarterback school - and while he didn’t stick in Minnesota, he’s since looked competent in Seattle.
Meanwhile, rookie J.J. McCarthy has been slowly finding his rhythm.
He’s shown real signs of growth lately, but the jury’s still out on whether he’s ready to be the guy going forward.
That’s why the idea of adding a veteran quarterback this offseason still feels very much on the table in Minnesota. Whether it’s a short-term rental like Aaron Rodgers, a reclamation project like Daniel Jones, or someone else entirely, the Vikings are keeping their options open.
Enter Kyler Murray.
According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, Minnesota might just be a team to watch if the Cardinals decide to move on from their former No. 1 overall pick. And make no mistake - Arizona appears to be quietly preparing for life after Kyler.
Murray’s situation is complicated. He’s only 28, and not too long ago, he was flirting with top-10 QB status.
But injuries, inconsistency, and a massive contract have clouded his future. He’s due nearly $37 million in guaranteed money in 2026, which makes any trade a financial puzzle.
Still, the talent is there - and a fresh start could be exactly what he needs.
Minnesota, with its offensive infrastructure and quarterback-friendly system, would be an appealing landing spot. O’Connell’s scheme is designed to accentuate a quarterback’s strengths, and Murray’s dual-threat ability could add a whole new dimension to the Vikings’ attack.
But there’s a catch: J.J. McCarthy’s recent progress makes this a more delicate situation than it might’ve been a month ago.
If Murray comes in, it likely signals a hard pivot away from McCarthy, at least in the short term.
So what does a Kyler Murray trade actually look like?
It’s not just about fit - it’s about commitment. Any team trading for Murray is signing up for at least a two-year investment, both financially and schematically. He’s still under the massive five-year, $230 million extension he signed in 2022, and Arizona can’t simply cut bait either - doing so would trigger a staggering $99 million dead cap hit.
That means a trade is the only realistic option for the Cardinals, and for the team acquiring him, it’s an all-in move. You’re not just betting on his talent; you’re betting that he can stay healthy, stay engaged, and rediscover the form that once made him one of the league’s most electric playmakers.
Murray’s 2025 campaign didn’t do much to quiet the doubters. He started just five games, completing 68.3% of his passes with six touchdowns and three interceptions.
Arizona went 2-3 in those starts. Not disastrous, but not the kind of performance that screams franchise savior either.
Still, the tools are there - the quick release, the mobility, the arm talent. The question is whether a coach like Kevin O’Connell sees enough to believe he can unlock it. If he does, and if the Vikings are willing to absorb the financial and draft capital cost, this could be one of the boldest moves of the offseason.
Bottom line: Minnesota has a decision to make. Ride with the rookie and continue developing J.J.
McCarthy, or swing big on a quarterback who’s shown flashes of brilliance but comes with baggage. If they believe Kyler Murray can thrive in their system, it might just be a gamble worth taking.