A New Chapter Begins: Kyler Murray Departs the Arizona Cardinals, Ushering in a Major Team Reset!
It's official: the Arizona Cardinals are moving on from their star quarterback, Kyler Murray. This significant shift comes after a period of exploration, with the team confirming that they explored all avenues to trade Murray at the combine, but unfortunately, those discussions didn't lead to a deal. The news, first reported by NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, was accompanied by a heartfelt farewell message from Murray himself on social media.
In his touching goodbye, Murray expressed his deep gratitude to the Cardinals community: "To everyone that supported me and showed kindness to my family and I during my time in Arizona, from the bottom of my heart, thank you." He shared his regret at not being able to end the 77-year drought for the organization, stating, "I am sorry I failed us." Looking ahead with unwavering faith, he added, "I am no stranger to adversity. I am prepared for whatever’s next. I trust in God and my work ethic. I truly believe my best ball is in front of me and I look forward to proving it. Godspeed."
Murray's tenure with the Cardinals saw him post a 38-48-1 record as their starting signal-caller. The decision to part ways follows a challenging 3-14 season in 2025, during which Murray's participation was limited to just five games due to a midfoot sprain. In those appearances, he managed a 2-3 record, completing 68.3% of his passes for 962 yards, 6 touchdowns, and 3 interceptions, along with 173 rushing yards and a touchdown.
But here's where it gets interesting... While Murray was sidelined, backup quarterback Jacoby Brissett stepped in, demonstrating his capabilities by completing 64.9% of his passes for 3,366 yards, 23 touchdowns, and 8 interceptions. However, despite these improved offensive numbers, Brissett's record as a starter was 1-11 last year. Now, with Murray's departure, Brissett is expected to be a strong contender for the starting role in 2026, a crucial year as it's the final year of his two-year contract with Arizona.
Kyler Murray’s polarizing Cardinals tenure comes to an unceremonious end.
Murray arrived in Arizona as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, immediately stepping into the starting quarterback position. Alongside then-head coach Kliff Kingsbury, he showcased flashes of brilliance as a rookie. In his first 16 starts, he completed 64.4% of his passes for 3,722 yards, 20 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions. His electrifying running ability was also on full display, adding 544 rushing yards and 4 touchdowns, earning him the 2019 Offensive Rookie of the Year award.
He followed up his stellar rookie season with back-to-back Pro Bowl selections in 2020 and 2021. His 2020 campaign was particularly impressive, with a combined 37 touchdowns and 4,790 yards through the air and on the ground. The team also saw significant progress during this period, eventually making the playoffs in their third year with Murray and Kingsbury at the helm.
And this is the part most people miss... Murray's sole playoff appearance for the franchise was a disappointing Wild Card loss to the Los Angeles Rams, which followed a late-season slump that saw them finish 11-6 despite an initial 7-0 start. Shortly after, a five-year contract extension worth $230.5 million with $160 million guaranteed was signed, though it wasn't without its drama, including a now-removed infamous study clause.
This period marked the zenith of Murray's time in Arizona. The turning point came eleven games into the 2022 season when he suffered a torn ACL, ending his season and coinciding with the departures of head coach Kliff Kingsbury and general manager Steve Keim.
Murray made his return midway through 2023 under a new front office and coaching staff. He completed his first full season in four years in 2024, throwing for 3,851 yards, 21 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions with a 68.8% completion rate. He also contributed 572 rushing yards and 5 touchdowns on 78 carries.
However, the anticipated turnaround in 2025 did not materialize, with Murray spending more time on the sidelines than on the field. Now, Murray has the opportunity to revitalize his promising career, while the Cardinals embark on a significant rebuilding phase at the most critical position in the sport.
What are your thoughts on this major shake-up in Arizona? Do you believe Kyler Murray can recapture his early-career magic elsewhere? Let us know in the comments below!
