The Kyler Murray era in Arizona is over. The Cardinals informed the veteran quarterback they plan to release him at the start of the new league year on March 11, sources confirmed Tuesday, clearing the way for Murray to hit free agency for the first time in his seven-year NFL career.
Murray, 28, is due $36.8 million in guaranteed money from the Cardinals in 2026 with offsets. That means any new team can sign him to the veteran minimum — roughly $1.3 million — while Arizona still covers the bulk of his pay. The former No. 1 overall pick in 2019 has made two Pro Bowls, started 87 games and led Arizona to one playoff appearance. His dual-threat ability (rushing for more than 3,000 career yards) remains a draw despite past questions about consistency and durability.
With several teams searching for quarterback help ahead of the March 11 free-agency window, here are the most logical landing spots based on roster fit, scheme and urgency:
Minnesota Vikings: The Vikings top most lists for good reason. A win-now roster built around Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison and tight end T.J. Hockenson pairs perfectly with Murray’s mobility in Kevin O’Connell’s quarterback-friendly scheme. J.J. McCarthy’s first full season as starter in 2025 left questions, and Minnesota has shown it can revive veteran passers (see Sam Darnold in 2024). Murray, a reported lifelong Vikings fan, could slide in as a low-cost bridge or starter with an elite supporting cast.
Atlanta Falcons: New coach Kevin Stefanski has yet to name Michael Penix Jr. the clear starter after the 2025 first-round pick tore his ACL and posted a 59.6% completion rate in limited action. Kirk Cousins is expected to be released, leaving an opening. Atlanta’s offense features Bijan Robinson, Drake London and Kyle Pitts — plenty of weapons for Murray’s deep-ball and scrambling style. Stefanski’s background with mobile quarterbacks (Lamar Jackson in Baltimore) adds another layer of appeal.
New York Jets: The Jets remain quarterback-starved and have playmakers in Garrett Wilson and Breece Hall. Murray would be the most talented option on a bargain deal compared with reclamation projects or draft picks. The lone concern: new offensive coordinator Frank Reich has historically preferred taller, pocket-style quarterbacks. Still, New York has the defensive foundation to contend if the offense clicks.
Miami Dolphins: Miami appears set to move on from Tua Tagovailoa after another injury-plagued stretch. The Dolphins’ speed-heavy attack with Jaylen Waddle and De’Von Achane would let Murray operate in space and push the ball downfield. Like Murray, Tagovailoa is a change-of-scenery candidate; pairing the 28-year-old with Miami’s offensive line and coaching staff could provide mutual stability at minimal cost.
Cleveland Browns: Desperate for a quarterback who can actually win games, Cleveland enters the offseason with Deshaun Watson, Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel on the roster — none of whom are locked in with new coach Todd Monken. Monken’s success developing Lamar Jackson in Baltimore gives him proven experience maximizing dual-threat talent. An open competition could allow Murray to win the job outright in a scheme built for mobility.
Other teams such as the Indianapolis Colts (transition tag on Daniel Jones) or Pittsburgh Steelers (pending Aaron Rodgers decision) could enter the mix, but the five above stand out for scheme fit and immediate opportunity.
Murray has privately expressed interest in two unspecified teams, per sources, and his preference for a fresh start after seven seasons in Arizona is no secret. At 28 and on a minimum deal, he represents one of the most intriguing value plays of the 2026 free-agency period. Whichever club lands him gets a proven starter capable of elevating an offense — provided the supporting cast and culture align.
