The Arizona Cardinals are entering a critical period of the offseason amid growing discussions about quarterback Kyler Murray’s status. After spending seven seasons in the NFL and missing games since Week 5 due to a foot injury, Murray’s future in Arizona is in question as coaching changes take place.
With the Cardinals parting ways with Jonathan Gannon and bringing in Mike LaFleur as head coach, many expect the team to reconsider the quarterback role, potentially leading to Murray’s departure. How the Cardinals handle Murray’s contract remains unclear, but the possibility of a trade or release is fueling speculation.
Reports Suggest Vikings Are Eyeing Kyler Murray
Multiple insiders have indicated the Minnesota Vikings are closely tracking Murray’s situation. Dan Graziano highlighted the unpredictable offseason quarterback market and noted the Vikings could pursue a player like Murray or Geno Smith on a cost-effective, one-year deal to prove themselves.
“The odd quarterback landscape of this offseason makes it difficult to predict where the Vikings land, but if and when someone such as Geno Smith or Kyler Murray gets cut, I could see Minnesota pursuing that kind of passer on a low-cost, one-year prove-it deal.” ?Dan Graziano, ESPN Analyst
Jeremy Fowler echoed this view and mentioned that Minnesota’s veteran quarterback considerations include Murray alongside Smith, Tua Tagovailoa, and Kirk Cousins. Fowler explained that some insiders rank Murray and Smith higher than others among these options.
“I’ve also heard that the Vikings are considering Murray and Smith as they outline their veteran quarterback plan. Tua Tagovailoa and Cousins are also on their radar. Some I’ve talked to are breaking those four into two tiers, with Murray and Smith in the first group.” ?Jeremy Fowler, ESPN Reporter
Contrastingly, NBC’s Matthew Berry recently suggested the Vikings might not be interested in Murray, underscoring the uncertainty around this potential move.
Financial Challenges and Team Fit for a Possible Trade
The Vikings face significant salary cap hurdles, needing to clear $45.5 million before free agency starts. Despite this, acquiring Murray could align with their desire to compete immediately, offering him the chance to connect with coach Kevin O’Connell and star receiver Justin Jefferson.
From the Cardinals’ perspective, releasing Murray with a Pre-June 1 designation would incur $54.7 million in dead cap space, though it would only reduce their 2026 cap by $2 million. Arizona currently projects over $30 million in cap space entering the free agency period and retains Jacoby Brissett as a starting quarterback under contract for the next season.
Meanwhile, rumors from the NFL Combine link the Cardinals to quarterbacks Jimmy Garoppolo—a favorite of coach LaFleur—and Malik Willis, reflecting the team’s hunt for additional quarterback options.
NFL free agency is scheduled to open with a tampering period starting March 9, which may accelerate decisions regarding Murray’s future and the Vikings’ interest.
