The Arizona Cardinals are parting ways with quarterback Kyler Murray, marking the end of a tumultuous tenure. Murray, once a promising rookie, faced numerous challenges and setbacks during his time with the team. Despite his efforts, the Cardinals decided to move on, seeking a fresh start at the quarterback position.
Murray's journey began as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, instantly thrust into a starting role. He showcased his potential as a rookie, completing 64.4% of his throws for 3,722 yards and 20 touchdowns to 12 interceptions in his first 16 starts. This performance earned him the 2019 Offensive Rookie of the Year title and back-to-back Pro Bowl seasons from 2020-21, where he excelled with 37 touchdowns and 4,790 yards through the air and on the ground.
However, Murray's time in Arizona was not without controversy. A five-year contract extension worth $230.5 million with $160 million guaranteed came with tumultuous negotiations, Instagram scrubbing, and an infamous study clause that was later removed. This extension marked the peak of Murray's tenure, as he struggled with injuries, including a torn ACL in 2022 that sidelined him for the season.
In 2024, Murray returned from injury, completing 68.8% of his throws for 3,851 yards and 21 touchdowns to 11 interceptions. However, the Cardinals' season took a turn for the worse, finishing with a 3-14 record in 2025. Murray's performance in 2025 was underwhelming, spending more time on the shelf than in the starting lineup.
Now, with Murray's release, the Cardinals seek a major reset at the quarterback position. Jacoby Brissett, who took over for Murray, is expected to be in the mix for the starting role in 2026. Murray's polarizing tenure with the Cardinals comes to an unceremonious end, leaving him to seek a revival of his once-promising career elsewhere.
