Kyler Murray Situation Takes a New Turn
The Minnesota Vikings are widely expected to pursue released Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray. The veteran was officially axed on Wednesday, allowing interested teams to make their move on the passer.
It appears the Vikings may get the first opportunity. Looks like the 28-year-old is on his way to the Twin Cities.
Longtime Arizona radio host John Gambadoro reported on social media, “Kyler Murray will visit with the Minnesota Vikings tomorrow. A starting spot is a priority, and Minnesota does offer that and a deal could be done in the next 24 hours. But Murray and his camp are expected to explore several options as a backup in 2026 for teams that could need a starting QB in 2027 over the next 24 hours.”
ESPN’s Adam Schefter confirmed the report.
Murray, once the franchise quarterback of the Cardinals, was shown the door on Wednesday. The organization wanted to go in a different direction with a new head coach and quarterback room.
The 2019 top pick signed a massive contract extension in 2022 and the Cardinals are still on the hook for the upcoming season. Because Arizona remains responsible for much of his salary, another team can sign Murray for the veteran minimum: $1.3 million in his case.
Murray on a massive salary is a challenge. Murray at the veteran minimum is a bargain.
Generally, visits go Minnesota’s way thanks to its beautiful facility. The charismatic coach who’s regarded as a quarterback whisperer could also factor in. Murray is looking for the best possible destination to rehabilitate his career and set himself up for another payday next offseason.
In Minnesota, he’d meet J.J. McCarthy in the quarterback room. Of course, McCarthy could still grow between Week 18 of last season and Week 1 of the next, but Murray would be considered the heavy favorite to take the first snap in 2026.
ESPN’s Kevin Seifert commented on the upcoming visit: “Lots to discuss. Perhaps nothing more important than whether Kyler Murray would enter camp as the Vikings’ QB1 or in competition with J.J. McCarthy. It’s quite possibly the latter, and might not be a dealbreaker regardless. But important for everyone to understand at the outset.”
Last year, the Vikings reportedly lost Daniel Jones to Indianapolis because he thought the chances of beating out Anthony Richardson for the starting role were better than beating out McCarthy.
This year, Murray could also be spooked by O’Connell’s potential admiration for his drafted quarterback, though the concerning performance in 2025 might have changed the coach’s view as well. There’s a reason why the Vikings are in the market for a quarterback.
It’s also true that Murray is running out of other options. All other starting spots have already been filled or will be filled in the draft. The two remaining vacancies are in Minnesota and in Pittsburgh. Aaron Rodgers is a free agent and retirement could be on his bingo card.
Murray has only played one full season over his last four. A torn ACL cost him time in 2022 and 2023 and a foot injury (and Arizona’s tanking) sidelined him in 2025. In 2024, Murray started all 17 games and he accounted for 26 total touchdowns (21 passing) to 11 interceptions. He has two Pro Bowls under his belt and certainly possesses some upside.
Kevin O’Connell would be tasked with unlocking that hidden talent. Having Jordan Addison and Justin Jefferson as his targets is another decent selling point.
The visit will likely determine how serious the Vikings are about bringing Murray to Minnesota. If both sides see a clear path to playing time and a fresh start, negotiations could move quickly. With most starting jobs already spoken for around the league, the Vikings represent one of the few opportunities for Murray to reestablish himself as a starter. For Minnesota, meanwhile, the move would instantly reshape the quarterback competition heading into training camp.
Editor’s Note: Information from PFF, Over The Cap, and Sports Reference helped with this article.