One of the bigger names available at the quarterback position in this free agency cycle was Kyler Murray. With the Arizona Cardinals moving in a different direction, one of the most athletic quarterbacks in recent history moved to the Minnesota Vikings.
With his stock taking a dramatic dip over the last couple of seasons, the genius of the system could serve as a career revival for him. However, controversial analyst Dan Orlovsky isn’t too sure Minnesota is the right place for him.
Why Kyler Murray’s Style, Not Talent, Could Define His Vikings Era
With an offensive genius in Kevin O’Connell, maybe the best wide receiver in football in Justin Jefferson, and an excellent supporting cast beyond that, the Vikings are uniquely set up for success with the right quarterback.
But under Kirk Cousins, they had a definitive ceiling, specifically in the postseason. Choosing J.J. McCarthy over Sam Darnold after his lone year might have been their biggest mistake. Unsurprisingly, the experiment did not work out in the slightest, as McCarthy finished 37th on PFSN’s QB Impact.
As a result, the team is now taking a flyer on Murray to potentially fix their quarterback woes. Given his obvious talent, it seems like an easy match, at least on paper. However, Orlovsky, who spent his tenure in the NFL as a quarterback, isn’t too sure.
Speaking on “Get Up,” he made his initial argument. “I think Kyler Murray makes sense for Minnesota. I think the reality for Minnesota with Kevin O’Connell and Kyler Murray is, you’re taking a very unique player and trying to fit him into this very specific scheme.”
It was the same problem many believed Ben Johnson would face when he joined the Chicago Bears. A more naturally gifted athlete might be able to make spectacular, off-schedule plays, but could struggle with the on-time, routine stuff.
“Kyler is this dynamic athlete, and a very good thrower of the football. He’s had moments when I think he’s played MVP style of quarterback. But that’s not necessarily the type of player we’ve seen, at least right now, thrive in these offenses.”
To further prove his point, he even brought evidence, showing how the Vikings ranked in the top 5 when it came to under-center % and play-action % since O’Connell took over. On the other hand, Murray averaged 3 attempts per game for his career.
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Even though Minnesota offers a better chance for Murray to get his career back on track than most other places, the system in place is going to be a challenge for him. As a result, it might not be as smooth sailing as most people are projecting it to be.
“Doesn’t mean Kyler can’t do it, just that he really hasn’t.”
