Vikings emerge as favorite for Kyle Murray after release from the Cardinals

Kyler Murray is expected to be released by the Arizona Cardinals when the NFL league year begins on March 11. The move stems from his contract’s cost and a lack of trade partners. A post-June 1 cut would still leave Arizona with roughly $47.5 million in dead cap, per reports.

Murray is owed $36.8 million fully guaranteed for 2026, another $19.5 million becomes guaranteed in 2027 if he stays past the third day of the league year, per rollingout.com. That ticking guarantee forced the Cardinals’ urgent timeline.

Reports cite concerns beyond money. Sources say the organization has grown frustrated with his work ethic and demeanor. Injury history matters too. Murray missed 12 games with a sprained foot last season and missed some of 2022 with a torn ACL. Observers say his mobility has dipped, affecting his upside.

The Cardinals are likely releasing Kyler Murray when the NFL’s league year begins, per @RapSheet.

Arizona will have $47.5 million dead cap charge with a post-June 1 cut designation on Murray.

Murray would sign elsewhere on a 1-year prove-it deal. pic.twitter.com/7L8715VMBp
— Evan Sidery (@esidery) March 1, 2026

That context pushed the Minnesota Vikings into the rumor mix, since Minnesota needs quarterback help. Analyst Enzo Flojo outlined a trade framework, per Roundtable: “The cleanest structure looks like this: The Vikings receive Kyler Murray and a 2027 fourth-round pick. The Cardinals receive Minnesota’s 2026 second-round pick, a 2027 third-round pick, and quarterback JJ McCarthy.”

Still, landing Murray is far from certain; the Vikings sit over $40 million above the cap and may re-sign tight end T.J. Hockenson. Those constraints complicate any trade and make other options, Jimmy Garoppolo, Malik Willis, or keeping Jacoby Brissett realistic for Arizona.

MORE: Update on Derek Carr’s trade market

For Murray, a release likely leads to a one-year, prove-it deal. The Vikings are a logical landing spot in rumor circles, but hurdles remain. Until a move happens, this is a strong rumor with work left to do. A trade could free cap space and let the Cardinals pivot and add draft capital.

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