The Cardinals have informed Kyler Murray that he will be released, multiple outlets report, with the official transaction expected to take place on the opening day of the new league year, March 11.
Arizona had explored trade options for Murray, but those efforts did not come to fruition. Under his current contract, Murray is guaranteed $36.8 million for 2026, and an additional $19.5 million in guarantees would have been triggered for 2027 if he remained on the roster by March 15.
With the release proceeding as anticipated, Murray will begin his search for a new team. Because his deal includes offset language, any new club signing him at the minimum salary would effectively cover his guaranteed 2026 money, with the rest addressed by his existing guarantees.
Murray issued a message on social media expressing gratitude and resolve. He wrote that he deeply appreciates the support from Arizona fans and his family, acknowledged falling short of his goal to bring the franchise its first championship in 77 years, and conveyed his readiness for what comes next, trusting in God and his work ethic and believing his best football lies ahead.
Selected first overall in the 2019 NFL Draft, Murray has played seven seasons in Arizona, missing 21 of 51 possible games over the last three years. During his time with the Cardinals, he posted a 38-48-1 record in the regular season, with the team making the playoffs once and never winning a postseason game. He earned two Pro Bowl selections (2020, 2021) and finished his Cardinals tenure with a 67.1% completion rate, 20,460 passing yards, 121 touchdowns, and 60 interceptions.
