Kyler Murray’s Future in Question: Could a Surprising Vikings Deal Be on the Horizon?

Well, here we go again — a seismic shakeup might be brewing in the desert as Kyler Murray, the Arizona Cardinals’ star quarterback, could soon find himself searching for greener pastures. Reports are swirling, with NFL Network’s own Ian Rapoport dropping the bombshell that the Cardinals may cut ties with Murray unless a trade magically materializes before the offseason deadline. It’s a staggering thought considering Murray’s massive $230.5 million deal inked just in 2022, binding the Cardinals to a hefty $125.1 million commitment through 2028. Now, despite the jaw-dropping numbers, the cap situation seems to offer a bit of relief heading into 2026-2027 — but releasing Murray outright would still sting with a dead-cap hit north of $57 million. His injury-plagued recent seasons and limited playoff action only add fuel to the fire, making the potential parting of ways plausible. And, if a fresh start is on the horizon, the Minnesota Vikings are reportedly circling, eager to fill the quarterback void left by J.J. McCarthy’s uneven performances. Could this be the perfect storm for Murray to reboot his career surrounded by the likes of Justin Jefferson? Meanwhile, the Cardinals might pivot toward someone more in sync with new coach Mike LaFleur’s philosophy — maybe even Jimmy Garoppolo making a familiar return. The quarterback carousel is spinning fast, with other veterans like Geno Smith, Tua Tagovailoa, and Kirk Cousins expected to become hot commodities too. Buckle up, because this offseason promises plenty of moves that’ll shake the NFL landscape. LEARN MORE

Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray could be looking for a new home this offseason. The Cardinals could reportedly cut Murray, barring any last-minute trade, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.

Murray is in the second year of a $230.5 million contract that he signed in 2022. Per The Athletic, he is on the Cardinals’ books for $125.1 million through 2028. Nearly $40 million is fully guaranteed in 2026. If the Cardinals release Murray outright in March, they will take a dead-cap hit of $57.7 million. If they release him after June 1, the dead cap would be split: $50.5 million in 2026 and $7.2 million in 2027.

Luckily for the Cardinals if they do decide to move on from Murray, the cap is expected to be up heading into the 2026-2027 season.

Murray threw for 962 yards, six touchdowns, and three interceptions in five games before missing the rest of last season with a foot injury. The 28-year-old quarterback spent his first seven seasons with the Cardinals and has played in only one playoff game. Murray has missed 30 games in his NFL career.

Despite his injuries and lack of playoff experience, the Minnesota Vikings could reportedly be one of the teams interested in Murray if he hits the open market.

A change of scenery could make sense for all parties involved. The Vikings could bring in a new quarterback after being plagued by J.J. McCarthy’s inconsistencies and injuries last season. The team is looking to win now after a 14–3 season and a playoff appearance in 2024. Despite taking McCarthy with the 10th overall pick in 2024, the Vikings fired general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, who has been connected to trading up to select him.

Justin Jefferson could potentially be the best receiver Murray has played with since DeAndre Hopkins. While Murray gives Jefferson a veteran quarterback after playing with three quarterbacks last season.

The Cardinals could also move on from Murray and acquire a quarterback who more closely fits new head coach Mike LaFleur’s system. Arizona has reportedly been linked to quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo, who played under LaFleur with the Los Angeles Rams and the San Francisco 49ers.

NFL combine results live updates news Offensive linemens workouts conclude events action WR Brenen Thompson runs fastest 40 at 426

If the Cardinals do not move on from Murray, or if he signs with another team, the Vikings could reportedly target veteran quarterbacks Geno Smith of the Las Vegas Raiders, Tua Tagovailoa of the Miami Dolphins and Kirk Cousins of the Atlanta Falcons. Each quarterback is expected to be moved by his team and could challenge McCarthy for the starting job.

The Vikings will also reportedly free up cap space after releasing veterans Aaron Jones and Javon Hargrave on Sunday.