Cardinals Releasing Kyler Murray
The Arizona Cardinals are expected to release QB Kyler Murray after failing to find a trade destination for the former #1 overall pick. This move adds another high-profile quarterback to an already crowded free agent market. The release potentially creates a domino effect as multiple franchises reassess their quarterback situations heading into 2026.
The move is propelled by pressing financial deadlines. If Murray is on the roster on March 15, his 2027 base salary of $19.5 million becomes guaranteed. Releasing him will result in a significant dead cap hit of over $54.7 million for the Cardinals in 2026. A trade would have been more financially palatable for Arizona, creating nearly $35 million in cap savings with a dead cap hit of about $17.9 million. However, with two years remaining on his five-year, $230 million contract, finding a trade partner proved impossible. Murray's camp reportedly preferred a release, allowing him to enter free agency and choose his next team. Murray's performance has been inconsistent since a stellar 2021 season that earned him a second Pro Bowl selection. A torn ACL ended his 2022 season, and a foot injury sidelined him for the final 12 games of the 2025 season. The Cardinals have concerns that his mobility, a key part of his game, is now "shot." The relationship between the quarterback and the organization has reportedly deteriorated. The team has been described as "frustrated" with Murray, questioning his work ethic and leadership. Reports also indicate that Murray and Cardinals General Manager Monti Ossenfort have not spoken since the conclusion of the season. During Murray's absence in 2025, the offense appeared more synchronized under veteran backup Jacoby Brissett, who is still under contract. This improved offensive flow with Brissett at the helm further fueled speculation about the team's desire to move on from the former Offensive Rookie of the Year. Despite his recent struggles, Murray enters a relatively weak quarterback free agent market. Other available names include Daniel Jones, Malik Willis, and a 42-year-old Aaron Rodgers. This lack of top-tier options could increase Murray's value for teams in desperate need of a starting quarterback. Potential suitors in need of a quarterback include the Las Vegas Raiders, Miami Dolphins, and Cleveland Browns. Murray will likely be seeking a "prove-it" deal to re-establish himself as a franchise quarterback in the league.
