Kyler Murray Sweepstakes Looking Like a Two-Horse Race
Very soon, the Kyler Murray decision is going to be made. Of course, he’ll have some agency in the matter, capable of deciding when he agrees to sign a new deal. The widespread expectation, though, is that a deal will get across the finish line before too long.
As they round the corner, the Vikings appear to be in a two-horse race. Kevin O’Connell’s squad appears to be running alongside Mike McCarthy’s Pittsburgh Steelers. No shortage of digital ink has been spilled on the idea of Aaron Rodgers returning to The Steel City, but when does Mr. Rodgers ever make anything easy? The NFC North and AFC North teams could be a Kyler collision course.
Kyler Murray: Vikings, Steelers, or Dark Horse Team?
Quite possibly, the NFL has another trick up its sleeve. Does a dark horse team emerge to scoop up Mr. Murray?
Without question, the possibility is out there. Maybe a team with great coaching but an injured starter — think Kansas City or Denver as examples — makes a move. Come and start early, the sales pitch goes, while getting supported by Super Bowl winning coaches and a strong roster. Or, perhaps, a team with an ace quarterback coach (Rams, 49ers, and so on) makes a move. Stranger things have happened.
For the sake of simplicity, let’s assume the expected occurs: the Vikings and Steelers are the main players. Consider a case for each side.
Going to Pittsburgh means playing for a tremendous franchise that has won multiple Super Bowls. Bring the team back to that level and not only does glory follow but being grafted into a prestigious tradition, too. Consider, as well, that the Steelers are entering a new era and are unusually committed to avoiding knee-jerk reactions. If solidity and wisdom are desired, the Steelers are toward the top of the NFL.
Mike McCarthy has some supporters in the NFL. D.K. Metcalf is a fantastic receiver. Michael Pittman is, as well. Pittsburgh has much to offer, including a history of knowing how to play excellent defense.
In Minnesota, there’s a respected quarterback-turned-coach in Kevin O’Connell. If someone wants to pass, the Vikings are a good fit, at least in a general sense. Plus, Josh McCown (the team’s QB coach) generates ample respect.
Tossing the ball to Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison, and T.J. Hockenson is as good as it gets. Literally. Is there a more formidable collection of skill in the NFL? Other teams have deadly twosomes but the Vikings have the best receiver in the NFL alongside two other very good players.
A tricky dynamic in Minnesota? Needing to compete with J.J. McCarthy, someone whom the Vikings still want as the long-term franchise quarterback. Pittsburgh doesn’t have nearly so much invested in other quarterback options.
Another factor: playing outdoors versus in a stadium. If that plays into the decision — think a home-run hitter preferring to play in a stadium with easy-to-clear walls — then the Vikings gain an edge.
Best guess is that Kyler Murray becomes the new Vikings passer. The 28-year-old playmaker isn’t stupid. He has seen what took place with Kirk Cousins, Sam Darnold, and Daniel Jones. Each one left the Vikings behind for major paydays. He could do likewise if he eviscerates all foes as the Vikings’ QB1 in 2026.
Pittsburgh, in contrast, hasn’t been a hotbed of quarterback development in recent seasons.
Look for the Kyler Murray decision to get settled before too long. A Vikings fan growing up, Murray could become a Viking as soon as suppertime.
