The Arizona Cardinals are preparing to move on from quarterback Kyler Murray, informing the former No. 1 overall pick that he will be released next Wednesday when the new NFL league year begins, according to multiple reports.
The decision signals the end of Murray’s seven-year run with the Arizona Cardinals, a tenure that began with enormous expectations after he was selected first overall in the 2019 NFL Draft. Murray quickly became the face of the franchise, winning NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year and earning two Pro Bowl selections early in his career.
However, the partnership between quarterback and franchise never fully delivered the success Arizona hoped for. Over seven seasons, Murray led the Cardinals to just one playoff appearance, and the team failed to win a postseason game during that stretch. Injuries and inconsistency also played a role in derailing momentum, with Murray missing significant time in recent seasons.
Financial factors also contributed to the decision. Murray is owed $36.8 million guaranteed for the 2026 season, and another $19.5 million in guarantees for 2027 would have triggered in mid-March if he remained on the roster. By releasing him before that deadline, the Cardinals avoid locking themselves into additional long-term financial commitments.
Arizona reportedly explored the possibility of trading Murray but ultimately informed him that a release is the most likely outcome unless a last-minute deal materializes before the start of the new league year.
The move also reflects a broader reset within the organization. With a new coaching staff led by head coach Mike LaFleur and a front office looking to reshape the roster, the Cardinals appear ready to search for their next quarterback — potentially through free agency or the upcoming NFL Draft.
For Murray, the next chapter may begin quickly. Despite injuries and mixed team results in Arizona, the dynamic dual-threat quarterback remains one of the most talented players available and could attract interest from teams across the league looking for a starting quarterback.
If the release becomes official next week, it will close a dramatic chapter in Arizona — and open one of the most intriguing quarterback storylines of the 2026 NFL offseason.
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