As the NFL landscape shifts, the Arizona Cardinals are making headlines with plans to potentially part ways with quarterback Kyler Murray before the 2026 season kicks off. The buzz around the league, as reported by insiders, suggests Murray is indeed on the trading block. However, moving him won't be a straightforward affair, as the Cardinals might need to absorb a hefty financial hit to make it happen.
One general manager, diving into the quarterback market, expressed confidence that Murray's departure is imminent. Despite the hiring of offensive guru Mike LaFleur as head coach, which sparked some speculation about retaining Murray, the GM was clear: “We aren’t interested.
The coaching change doesn’t alter their desire to move him. They’ll find a way, but it’ll come at a cost.”
Murray's contract includes a fully guaranteed $50 million for 2026, adding layers to the trade complexity. The prevailing sentiment is that he's likely to be traded, with conditional draft picks being the probable currency.
These picks would hinge on Murray's performance in 2026, but the GM believes Murray's current trajectory is well-defined. A fresh start might revitalize him, yet there's no denying the baggage accompanying his talent.
Coach LaFleur has maintained that there's no set timeline for a decision regarding Murray, but financial deadlines loom. Specifically, a $19.5 million guarantee for 2027 will activate on March 15 if Murray remains on the roster.
Murray, now 28, was the top pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, choosing football over a promising baseball career with the Oakland A’s. His journey with the Cardinals began with a four-year deal worth over $35 million, including a substantial signing bonus. The team exercised his fifth-year option, and in 2022, he inked a massive five-year, $230.5 million extension with $160 million guaranteed.
Last season, Murray's on-field presence was limited to five games, during which he completed 68.3% of his passes, throwing for 962 yards, six touchdowns, and three interceptions. He also added 173 rushing yards and a touchdown to his stats.
Meanwhile, Jacoby Brissett, who joined the Cardinals last year, has shown his value. A seasoned veteran at 33, Brissett's journey began as a third-round pick by the Patriots in 2016.
His career has seen him with the Colts, Dolphins, Browns, Commanders, and a return to the Patriots before landing in Arizona. In 2025, Brissett played in 14 games, starting 12, and completed 64.9% of his passes for 3,366 yards, 23 touchdowns, and eight interceptions, alongside 168 rushing yards and a touchdown.
The Cardinals' quarterback situation remains fluid, with Brissett's steady hand providing stability as the team navigates this pivotal offseason. As the drama unfolds, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how these moves shape the future of the franchise.