According to NFL insiders Ian Rapoport, Tom Pelissero, and Mike Garafolo on Good Morning Football, the Arizona Cardinals are expected to part ways with quarterback Kyler Murray in the upcoming offseason amid growing trade speculation. The move is driven by financial considerations and the team’s interest in freeing up salary cap space.
Financial Implications of Trading Murray
Murray carries $36.8 million guaranteed for 2026 and is set to receive another $19.5 million guaranteed in March 2027. Although the Cardinals could cut Murray before that to avoid the 2027 guarantee, doing so would result in a $57 million dead-money penalty. Trading him offers the Cardinals a way to save nearly $35 million in salary cap space, making it a more attractive option if they can find a trading partner.
The Cardinals’ asking price for Murray is anticipated to begin around a second or third-round draft pick, though they may need to subsidize some of his contract to facilitate a deal. This financial flexibility is a key motivator behind the team’s willingness to consider trade offers.
Potential Interested Teams and Trade Valuations
Jeremy Fowler noted that teams like the Atlanta Falcons and New York Jets are among those expected to express interest in acquiring Murray this offseason. An NFC source recently told reporter Josh Weinfuss that the Cardinals would likely start trade discussions at a second-round pick and appear open to moving Murray at that level.
Another league insider suggested the Cardinals might be willing to accept a third-round pick, drawing a comparison between Murray and Raiders quarterback Geno Smith, who was traded for a third-round selection last year. This source emphasized,
“while Murray is a more talented player, Smith was more consistent the season before he was dealt.”
— unnamed league source via Josh Weinfuss
Injury History and Recent Performance
Murray suffered a foot sprain in Week 5 during the 2025 season and remained on the active roster for four weeks. Although he appeared close to returning, the Cardinals abruptly named veteran Jacoby Brissett as the starter and moved Murray to injured reserve, ending his season prematurely. In 2025, Murray played five games, completing 68.3 percent of his passes for 962 yards with six touchdowns and three interceptions, while adding 173 rushing yards and a touchdown on the ground.
Murray’s Career Background and Contract Details
Selected first overall in the 2019 NFL Draft by Arizona, Murray’s decision to play football followed his earlier status as a first-round draft pick by the Oakland A’s in baseball. His initial NFL contract was a four-year deal worth $35.16 million, including a $23.59 million signing bonus. The Cardinals exercised his fifth-year option for 2023, which was estimated at $29.7 million.
In 2022, Arizona signed Murray to a five-year extension valued at $230.5 million, featuring $160 million in guarantees, reflecting the team’s confidence in his potential at the time.
Future Outlook and Potential Impact on the Cardinals
The Cardinals’ decision to explore trading Kyler Murray marks a significant turning point for the franchise as they reconsider their quarterback position and salary commitments. If a trade occurs, Arizona could clear substantial cap space, allowing strategic moves during the offseason. Teams such as the Falcons and Jets may benefit from adding a dynamic passer, though the cost in draft capital and any contract buyouts will be critical factors in negotiations.
As trade talks develop, fans and analysts will closely monitor how Murray’s situation unfolds, especially given his talent and injury concerns. Updates on any official moves will be provided as news breaks.
“while Murray is a more talented player, Smith was more consistent the season before he was dealt.” — unnamed league source via Josh Weinfuss
