Cardinals Inform QB Kyler Murray of Release at Start of New League Year
The Arizona Cardinals have officially ended the Kyler Murray era, with the team informing the quarterback of his release at the beginning of the new league year, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported. This decision comes after a challenging season for Murray, who struggled to meet expectations and failed to lead the team to success.
Murray, who was set to earn $36.8 million in guarantees for the 2026 season, will likely play the upcoming year for the veteran minimum, similar to Russell Wilson's transition to the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2024. This move signals a significant shift in the team's strategy and a potential new direction for the franchise.
In a heartfelt message to Cardinals fans, Murray expressed his gratitude for the support and kindness he received during his time in Arizona. He acknowledged his desire to end the team's 77-year drought but admitted to falling short of his goals. Despite the setback, Murray remains optimistic, stating that his best football is yet to come.
The Cardinals' decision to release Murray was influenced by a series of events that unfolded during the 2025 season. Murray's performance declined, and he faced injuries, leading to his replacement by veteran backup Jacoby Brissett. The team's preference for Brissett over Murray raised questions about the quarterback's future with the organization.
Murray's release is expected to be official on March 11, marking the end of a chapter that began with his selection as the first overall pick in the 2019 draft. He earned the Offensive Rookie of the Year award and led the team to a wild-card appearance in the 2021 season under former coach Kliff Kingsbury. However, the Cardinals have struggled since then, leading to the firing of coach Jonathan Gannon in January after a 15-36 record in three seasons.
The Cardinals' general manager, Monti Ossenfort, indicated that all options were on the table regarding the quarterback position at the NFL Scouting Combine. This statement hinted at the team's willingness to explore different possibilities, including releasing Murray's lucrative contract. Ossenfort's decision to part ways with Murray is seen as a strategic move to focus on the team's future and shed the financial burden associated with Murray's contract.
Despite the upcoming release, Murray is expected to attract interest from teams seeking experienced starters. His affordability, given the veteran minimum, makes him an attractive option for franchises looking to rebuild or fill specific roles. The Cardinals' decision to move on from Murray marks a new chapter in their journey, leaving fans and analysts to speculate about the team's future direction and the potential impact on the quarterback position.
