Cardinals Release Kyler Murray
Arizona Cardinals have released QB Kyler Murray in a shocking offseason move that's dominating NFL buzz. The decision comes as a major surprise given Murray's status as a former #1 overall pick. Pittsburgh Steelers are meanwhile committed to keeping CB Jalen Ramsey and WR Roman Wilson for 2026 with no trade plans.
The Arizona Cardinals will absorb a significant financial blow for releasing Kyler Murray, with a dead cap hit of $54.7 million for the 2026 season. Murray is still due a guaranteed $36.8 million for 2026, a figure that makes him an exceptionally affordable gamble for a new team, who could potentially sign him for the veteran minimum. Murray's departure follows a tumultuous 2025 season where he struggled with inconsistent play and injuries. The performance of veteran backup Jacoby Brissett, who found more success in the offense, likely factored into the organization's decision to move on. This move allows new head coach Mike LaFleur and general manager Monti Ossenfort, who were not with the team when Murray was drafted, to select their own quarterback. The decision to release Murray came after the team was reportedly unable to find a trade partner willing to take on his contract; a trade would have resulted in a much smaller dead cap hit of $17.9 million for the Cardinals. The release also precedes a March 15 deadline that would have guaranteed $19.5 million of his 2027 salary. In his seven seasons with Arizona, the former Heisman Trophy winner and two-time Pro Bowler led the team to the playoffs just once, resulting in a Wild Card round loss in 2021. He leaves the franchise ranked third in all-time passing yards (20,460) and passing touchdowns (121). In a farewell message, Murray expressed his regret, stating, "I wanted nothing more than to be the one to end the 77-year drought for this organization, I am sorry I failed us."
