With starting quarterback Kyler Murray sidelined by an injury, Jacoby Brissett has stepped in and sparked some much-needed optimism for the Arizona Cardinals. His performance was highlighted by a complete team effort in a 27-17 victory over the Dallas Cowboys, which snapped the team’s five-game losing streak. This unexpected success has created a complicated quarterback situation, especially with Murray’s potential return on the horizon.
Now, a new report from ESPN suggests the organization may have already made a difficult decision regarding the future of its former No. 1 overall pick.
Is Kyler Murray’s Time in Arizona Coming to an End?
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Cardinals and Murray are expected to hold extensive discussions in the upcoming months to decide whether to continue their partnership or part ways.
A source close to the situation told ESPN that “a separation is imminent,” hinting that a move could be on the horizon for both sides. While Murray’s contract runs through the 2028 season, his long-term future with the franchise has become increasingly uncertain.
Brissett’s positive play in the starting role has prompted the front office to evaluate its poor start to the season and the overall quarterback situation. This has led to questions about Murray’s fit within head coach Jonathan Gannon’s system.
Before his injury, Murray completed 68.3% of his passes for 962 yards through five games, throwing for six touchdowns and three interceptions. He also added 173 rushing yards and a score on the ground. His performance earned him a grade of C and a 75.2 score in PFSN’s Quarterback Impact rating, ranking him 19th among all quarterbacks this season.
What Are the Financial Hurdles to Moving on From Murray?
If the Cardinals do decide to part ways with Murray, they face significant financial obstacles. Schefter outlined the potential cap hits associated with releasing him:
- Release before June 1, 2026: $57.7 million dead-cap hit
- Release after June 1, 2026: A split of $50.5 million in dead money in 2026, and $7.2 million in 2027
- Trade this offseason: $35.3 million in cap savings, with $17.9 million in dead money
These figures make a trade the most realistic path forward if Arizona opts for a reset at the quarterback position. However, Murray’s large contract and recent injury history could complicate any potential trade negotiations.
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Adding another layer to the situation, Schefter noted that neither General Manager Monti Ossenfort nor Coach Gannon was with the franchise when Murray was drafted or given his contract extension. This detachment could make the front office more willing to consider a transition at the position.
Schefter also reported that some NFL executives see parallels between Murray’s situation and the recent cases of Russell Wilson and Daniel Jones. Both quarterbacks had their injury situations and contract structures leave their respective teams hesitant to guarantee future money. The Denver Broncos moved on from Wilson before the 2024 season, despite giving him a five-year, $242 million extension in 2022.
Similarly, the New York Giants cut ties with Jones during the 2025 campaign, just a year and a half after he signed a four-year, $160 million deal, because the organization no longer saw him as its franchise quarterback.
Arizona faces a similar financial risk if Murray suffers another injury. As a result, the front office may try to protect itself financially until a final, long-term decision is made. For now, Brissett will continue as the starter while Murray recovers from his foot injury. The Cardinals will have to address the quarterback question this offseason, but if Schefter’s report is accurate, the Kyler Murray era in Arizona may be rapidly approaching its conclusion.
