The Minnesota Vikings have approximately 25-30 quarterback options in the open market this offseason, as the franchise seeks to add veteran oomph behind third-year passer J.J. McCarthy. Near the top of the list lives Kyler Murray of the Arizona Cardinals, and according to reports, Minnesota won’t even need to trade draft capital to get him.

A release would let Minnesota pursue Murray while keeping draft capital intact for roster upgrades elsewhere.

It’s becoming increasingly likely that Arizona will flat-out release the 28-year-old.

A Kyler Murray Release Would Change Minnesota’s Plan

Minnesota’s quarterback choice nears.

Murray Likely to Be Released, Not Traded

Talking on ESPN airwaves, former NFLer Booger McFarlan opined on Murray late last week, “Realistically, I don’t think anybody’s going to trade for Kyler Murray. He’s gotten to a point right now where when you look at him as a 5’-10″-maybe quarterback who struggled throwing from the pocket. Yeah, he’s athletic, but he’s been hurt. I just think the market for him to go to another team is going to be small.”

“It’s clear the Arizona Cardinals don’t want Murray anymore. So, asking Monti Ossenfort to go into his David Copperfield hat and pull something out, I think I know he’s good. I don’t think he can do magic. So, to ask him to go and pull out a third, a fourth, or a fifth-round pick, I don’t know if you can give Murray away right now.”

Revenge of the Birds‘ Barry Schuck added, “The ESPN Insiders are giving Murray a 5% chance of Murray getting traded to any NFL club. Rumors regarding moving him began right before the NFL trade deadline last year, but that came and went.”

“The whole roadblock is that mammoth contract Murray was given that every Arizona fan shouted was a huge mistake at the time of the signing. This story appears to be getting some footing regarding Murray wanting his outright release. And now, it appears some of it is coming from the Murray camp itself.”

Basically a Free QB in 2026

Murray signed the mega $230 million extension in 2022, and his guaranteed money has not run out. Put plainly, he’s still owed $36.8 million from the Cardinals — no matter what. Typically in the situation, because it’s not secret leaguewide that the player has been paid, the man signs a small contract with his new team after the release.

For example, in 2024, when the Denver Broncos cut ties with Russell Wilson, he signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers for just over a million bucks because Denver had paid him for that season. That’s what’s going on with Murray in this scenario.

A trade, on the other hand, would put Minnesota, or any other team, on the hook for Murray’s remaining contract. That’s why it’s so crucial for Arizona to release him — if you want your favorite team to snatch Murray. A roster cut makes Murray free in NFL speak for 2026.

All the Tools

If Minnesota’s choice is between Murray and a lower-ceiling bridge quarterback, the superior option is clear. Murray’s statistics speak for themselves. Over a 17-game season, he averages roughly 3,997 passing yards, 30 total touchdowns, 11 interceptions, a 67.1% completion rate, and 623 rushing yards.

Moreover, his career EPA+CPOE surpasses those of Baker Mayfield and Trevor Lawrence, demonstrating consistent production over multiple seasons.

Admittedly, Murray has reached the playoffs only once in his seven years with Arizona. His team’s record hasn’t always reflected his individual talent.

But Murray possesses undeniable skills. He can throw the ball 65–70 yards, previously ran a 4.38, and demonstrates exceptional accuracy. He’s far more than just a novelty or a limited passer.

While he might not be a seamless fit for Kevin O’Connell’s system, the decision hinges on the alternatives. If the Vikings’ choice is between Murray and a quarterback in the mold of Jimmy Garoppolo, the potential outcomes are vastly different — a point even Murray’s detractors would likely concede.

Will Vikings Recognize the Value?

Then, the main event: the Vikings must decide if Murray’s so-called aloof attitude is a legitimate character defect or a product of the Cardinals’ culture. The NFLPA leaked the annual report cards last week, and Arizona’s ownership received an ‘F’ grade.

Some fans have also questioned Murray’s scheme fit within O’Connell’s system. He’s not elite by the numbers throwing over the middle; can O’Connell accommodate Murray’s strengths, or will he remain rigid enough to tell the guy with 4.38 speed, supreme arm strength, and elite passing accuracy … no thanks.

If the Cardinals drop Murray, making him suddenly free to 31 teams, the Vikings, needing a quarterback, almost have to sign him due to the value.