As free agency approaches on March 11, the veteran quarterback market remains unsettled, with significant speculation surrounding several key players, including Kyler Murray. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler has indicated that Murray, along with Aaron Rodgers and Joe Flacco, could potentially return to their current teams for the 2025 season despite circulating trade rumors.
Rodgers, who had hinted that the 2025 season might mark his retirement, is reportedly feeling rejuvenated after his year with the Pittsburgh Steelers, suggesting he may continue playing beyond initial expectations.
Steelers Open to Extending Aaron Rodgers’ Tenure
The Steelers appear willing to keep Rodgers on their roster, with new head coach Mike McCarthy expressing during his introductory press conference a strong desire to reunite with his former quarterback. This connection adds weight to the possibility that Rodgers will remain with Pittsburgh in the near future.
Kyler Murray’s Trade Prospects and Arizona’s Strategy
Kyler Murray has been frequently mentioned as a likely candidate for a trade following another injury-plagued season. However, Fowler reports that it remains plausible for Murray to stay with the Arizona Cardinals as new head coach Mike LaFleur assesses his initial moves for the team.
Fowler commented,
“Keeping Murray could prove the path of least resistance. If he stays, Jacoby Brissett would become a workable trade candidate. He’s due a reasonable $4.88 million in base salary. He has friends in the league—such as Falcons coach Kevin Stefanski and Jets offensive coordinator Frank Reich—who could have interest in getting him.”
 ?Jeremy Fowler, ESPN
The financial implications complicate the Cardinals’ decisions. Releasing Murray before June 1 would trigger a $54.7 million dead cap hit in 2026. A trade could save the team nearly $35 million against the salary cap, but Murray’s $36.8 million guaranteed salary may deter teams seeking to acquire him.
Additionally, Arizona’s options to replace Murray are limited; holding the No. 3 pick in the draft does not guarantee a quarterback of comparable talent, especially with top prospects like Fernando Mendoza expected to be selected early by other teams.
Joe Flacco’s Future Remains Open Amidst Interest from Several Teams
Joe Flacco, who turned 41 on January 16, has expressed a desire to play in 2026 but emphasized that he is not willing to sign indiscriminately just to extend his career. Fowler noted,
“Flacco will have options this offseason,”
listing the Steelers, Minnesota Vikings, and Cincinnati Bengals as possible destinations depending on their roster plans.
Flacco also shared it “would be pretty cool” if he could finish his career having played for every AFC North team, a goal that would require a return to the Steelers since he has already played for the Bengals, Browns, and Ravens. ?Joe Flacco, Quarterback
Implications for the Quarterback Market and Team Strategies
With few high-upside quarterbacks expected in the upcoming draft class, teams aiming to strengthen their quarterback positions face limited options. This scarcity elevates the potential value of experienced veterans like Murray, Rodgers, and Flacco, making the trade and free-agent markets especially active this offseason.
As franchises weigh financial considerations, player health, and team fit, the decisions made regarding Murray and other veteran quarterbacks will significantly shape NFL rosters ahead of the 2025 season, potentially altering the dynamics of several teams across the league.
