Sportsnaut
At the start of the season, when the Arizona Cardinals got off to a 2-0 start, it looked like we might see Jonathan Gannon’s team reach the playoffs for the first time since he took over as head coach in 2023. Unfortunately, the Cardinals’ momentum was derailed, partially due to Kyler Murray’s injury, who has since been benched for Jacoby Brissett.
Murray’s benching, whether injury-related or not, may be the first sign that the Cardinals are planning to move on from their franchise quarterback this offseason. Yet, that’s no sure thing.
However, ESPN’s NFL insider Jeremy Fowler doesn’t expect Murray to be back in Arizona for an eighth season in 2026. He’s not alone. His colleague Dan Graziano feels the same way.
Together, the insiders speculated on which team(s) could have an interest in adding Murray once the offseason gets underway. They went on to name the Cleveland Browns and New York Jets, who appear likely to have a need for a new starting QB in 2026. Graziano also tossed the Miami Dolphins in, who could be looking to part ways with Tua Tagovailoa. He also added the Carolina Panthers with Bryce Young not showing much progress in his development.
Ultimately, Graziano’s sources “doubt” that the Cardinals will be able to trade Murray’s contract. Next season will be Year 4 of the five-year, $230 million contract Murray signed back in 2022. He’ll hold a whopping $53.6 million cap hit for next season, and he’s only made one playoff appearance.
Still, even with the hefty contract, there will be several teams looking to upgrade their QB room this offseason. One of them will likely fall in love with the idea of adding the 28-year-old former No. 1 overall pick into the mix, it’s just a matter of who, and at what price.
Related: Exec Advises Kyler Murray to Quit NFL, Join MLB
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