The Arizona Cardinals Release Their Former Franchise Quarterback
The Arizona Cardinals have informed former first overall pick Kyler Murray that he will be released, according to reports. Leaving the Cardinals with a dead cap hit of over 54 million. The decision comes after an injury-ridden 2025 season that created uncertainty at the quarterback position. Murray was eventually benched in favor of veteran backup Jacoby Brissett as the team attempted to stabilize the offense. Reports indicate that the organization evaluated its long-term outlook before finalizing the move. With his release, Murray will become a free agent for the first time in his NFL career and will now be able to determine his next destination.
Murray suffered a mid-foot sprain during a Week Five game against the Tennessee Titans. That contest ultimately marked the final start of his 2025 season with the Cardinals. He was later placed on injured reserve after the injury failed to fully heal, which sidelined him for the remainder of the year. During his absence, the Cardinals turned to Brissett in hopes of remaining competitive. Team sources say the shift at quarterback signaled the beginning of a transition that would later lead to Murray’s release. Murray’s most productive season with Arizona came in 2020, according to statistical reports from that year. He threw for 3,971 yards and 26 touchdowns while posting a 94.3 passer rating in just his second NFL season. His performance that year earned him Pro Bowl recognition and helped position the Cardinals as a rising team in the NFC. During Murray’s tenure, Arizona reached the postseason once. In their playoff appearance against the Los Angeles Rams, the Cardinals lost 34-11, and Murray threw an early interception that was returned for a touchdown, a play that set the tone for the game.
Reports suggest the organization believes moving on from Murray provides an opportunity for a broader reset across the roster. While he displayed dynamic athletic ability and playmaking talent, injuries and inconsistency impacted the team’s overall progress in recent seasons. Front-office evaluations reportedly focused on durability and long-term stability at the quarterback position. The release also carries financial implications that could give Arizona added flexibility moving forward. Team leadership appears focused on building a more consistent foundation as they look ahead to future seasons.
Murray’s release officially closes an important chapter in Cardinal’s history. As a former first overall pick and Offensive Rookie of the Year, he brought excitement and national attention to the franchise. However, sustained postseason success ultimately proved elusive during his time in Arizona. Now entering free agency, Murray will seek a fresh start and an opportunity to reestablish himself elsewhere. Meanwhile, the Cardinals move forward in search of their next franchise quarterback and a new era for the organization.
