Kyler Murray’s future in Arizona is murky heading into the 2026 offseason, and the former No. 1 overall pick could be one of the most intriguing names on the quarterback market-if the Cardinals decide to move on. After an injury-plagued 2025 campaign that saw him suit up for just five games due to a foot injury, both Murray and the franchise may be eyeing a fresh start. The question is: where would he actually fit?
Two teams have emerged in the conversation-one as an ideal fit, the other as a potential mismatch. Let’s break it down.
Los Angeles Rams: A Dream Fit That’s Likely Off the Table
On paper, the Los Angeles Rams make a ton of sense for Murray. Sean McVay has a track record of breathing life into quarterbacks looking to reestablish themselves-just ask Baker Mayfield.
The Rams will eventually need a successor to Matthew Stafford, who turns 38 this offseason and is openly weighing retirement. Murray, still just 28, could be a high-upside bridge to the next era of Rams football.
McVay’s offense is built to maximize timing, rhythm, and play-action-elements that could mesh well with Murray’s quick release, mobility, and ability to extend plays. And let’s not forget the weapons in L.A.
Puka Nacua is coming off another All-Pro caliber season, Davante Adams is still one of the most technically sound receivers in the league, and the backfield duo of Kyren Williams and Blake Corum gives the offense balance and burst. That’s a supporting cast that could help Murray hit the reset button in a big way.
But here’s the catch: Arizona’s not likely to trade Murray within the division. The Cardinals and Rams share the NFC West, and intra-division trades-especially involving quarterbacks-are about as rare as a no-look pass from a fullback. So while the Rams might be a dream fit schematically, the likelihood of that move happening is slim to none.
Minnesota Vikings: A Possible Destination, But Not the Best Match
Now let’s talk about a more realistic option: the Minnesota Vikings. The team is in the market for a veteran quarterback to either push or potentially supplant rookie J.J.
McCarthy. On the surface, it seems like a solid landing spot.
Kevin O’Connell is a quarterback-friendly coach, and the Vikings boast one of the league’s best receiving duos in Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison. That’s enough to pique anyone’s interest.
But dig a little deeper, and the fit becomes more complicated.
O’Connell’s system leans heavily on traditional dropback concepts-think timing throws, pocket movement, and progression reads. While he’s had some success reviving the careers of guys like Sam Darnold and Daniel Jones, those quarterbacks are more stylistically aligned with his offensive philosophy.
Murray, by contrast, thrives when the play breaks down. He’s at his best improvising outside the pocket, using his legs to create space and throwing off-platform.
That’s not exactly the mold O’Connell has built his system around.
And then there’s the McCarthy factor. The Vikings invested heavily in the Michigan product, and if the competition between him and a potential veteran addition is close, the front office may lean toward the guy they just drafted. Despite Murray’s longer NFL résumé, he might find himself in a real battle just to win the starting job.
So Where Does That Leave Murray?
The truth is, Murray’s situation is tough to pin down. He’s a former Pro Bowler with elite athleticism and a proven ability to make plays, but injuries and inconsistency have clouded his value. The Cardinals may look to trade him, but the market isn’t exactly brimming with perfect fits.
The Rams would be an ideal landing spot in a vacuum, but the in-division hurdle is a major roadblock. The Vikings are a more realistic option, but the schematic fit and quarterback room dynamics could make it a tough environment for Murray to thrive.
One thing is clear: Murray’s next stop-if there is one-will be pivotal for the trajectory of his career. At 28, he still has time to reclaim his place among the league’s top-tier quarterbacks. But it’s going to take the right coach, the right system, and the right situation to unlock that potential again.
As the offseason unfolds, keep an eye on how the quarterback carousel spins. Because whether it’s a trade, a release, or a surprise suitor entering the mix, Kyler Murray’s name is one we’re likely to hear a lot more of in the coming months.