The End of an Era: Kyler Murray's Farewell to Arizona
In a surprising turn of events, Kyler Murray's journey with the Arizona Cardinals has reached its conclusion, and it was Murray himself who broke the news to the world.
On a Tuesday tweet (https://x.com/K1/status/2028937232057549312?s=20), Murray bid farewell, expressing his deep regret for not ending the organization's 77-year drought. "I wanted nothing more than to be the hero, but I fell short. I'm sorry, and I wish the best for this community and my teammates," he wrote.
But here's where it gets controversial... multiple sources (https://x.com/TomPelissero/status/2028938093940617487?s=20) claim that the Cardinals had already informed Murray of their plans to release him next week unless a trade can be arranged. The team is legally unable to make any moves until March 11, the start of the new league year.
Regardless of the outcome, this move puts an end to months of speculation about Murray's future and sets the stage for a new beginning with the arrival of head coach Mike LaFleur.
It's been a while since Murray has spoken publicly, with his last appearance being after a loss to the Titans in Week 5.
"To all the fans and supporters in Arizona, thank you from the bottom of my heart for your kindness to my family and me," Murray tweeted. "I'm no stranger to challenges, and I'm ready for whatever comes next. I have faith in God and my work ethic, and I truly believe my best days are ahead. Godspeed."
Once Murray is off the Cardinals' roster, he'll have a fresh start, free from his previous contract obligations. (The Cardinals will take a hit of around $55 million in 2026 for Murray; this move also negates about $19.5M in guarantees for 2027 that would have been triggered had he remained on the roster after March 15.)
Potential landing spots for Murray include the Vikings and Falcons, and he'll be available for the league minimum, as the Cardinals still owe him a guaranteed $36M for this season.
The Cardinals still have veteran Jacoby Brissett and Kedon Slovis on the roster. Brissett started the final 12 games of the 2025 season. There are also rumors of the team considering free agents like Jimmy Garoppolo and Malik Willis, and there are several quarterbacks in the draft who could be in the mix.
Murray's seven-season tenure with the Cardinals saw him play in 87 games, all as a starter. Despite only playing five games this season, he has more games played than any other Arizona quarterback. He surpasses Jake Plummer (82), Kurt Warner (61), and Carson Palmer (60).
In franchise history, Murray ranks third with 20,460 passing yards, behind Jim Hart and Neil Lomax. He's second to Hart in completions (1,974) and third in touchdown passes to Hart and Lomax (121). His 3,193 rushing yards rank him 11th all-time for the franchise, ahead of notable backs like David Johnson, Edgerrin James, and Beanie Wells.
Murray's career began on a high note in Arizona under coach Kliff Kingsbury. He was named NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2019 and made the Pro Bowl in 2020 and 2021. In 2020, he had his best statistical season, completing 375 passes out of 558 attempts for 3,971 yards, 26 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions, and also rushed for 819 yards and 11 additional scores.
In 2021, Murray led the Cardinals to an impressive 7-0 start and an 11-6 record, securing the team's only playoff appearance during his tenure.
However, things took a turn in 2022. The Cardinals struggled under Kingsbury's last season, and Murray suffered a torn ACL late in the season, keeping him out until midseason of 2023 under new coach Jonathan Gannon.
Murray's return brought a glimmer of hope that season, and the 6-4 Cardinals were in first place in the NFC West at their bye in 2024. Unfortunately, the team's momentum stalled, losing five of their last seven games.
This season, expectations were high, and the Cardinals started strong, winning their first two games. But close losses to the 49ers and Seahawks, followed by a devastating 22-21 defeat to Tennessee, where Murray injured his foot, ultimately unraveled both Murray's and the Cardinals' seasons.
Murray never played for the Cardinals again.
After missing three games (Murray was able to practice towards the end of his rehab), he was placed on Injured Reserve on Nov. 5. When he became eligible to return, coach Gannon made the decision to keep Murray on the list for the remainder of the season.
Since then, there has been much discussion about Murray's future in Arizona. A fresh start for both parties seemed inevitable, especially with a coaching change.
What do you think? Is this the right move for the Cardinals? And what's next for Kyler Murray? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
