Kyler Murray, Cardinals Reportedly Could Part Ways, Insider Calls Move 'Imminent'

Kyler Murray's future with the Arizona Cardinals was already a storyline entering 2025, but now it's seeming more likely that a divorce could be on the horizon.

Per ESPN's Adam Schefter, the two sides are "expected to have extensive discussions" in the coming weeks and months to determine the best path forward for both.

One source told Schefter that a "separation is imminent" between Murray and the Cardinals.

It's not certain that Murray will play again this season. He hasn't played since Week 5 due to a foot sprain and the Cardinals placed him on injured reserve this week, meaning he will miss at least four more games.

Jacoby Brissett will remain the starting quarterback after going 1-2 in the last three games.

Even though the Cardinals don't have a winning record with Brissett under center, their offense has looked much better in his three games than they did with Murray.

Arizona is averaging 25.7 points and 356.7 yards per game with Brissett at quarterback. Those numbers were at 20.6 points and 288.4 yards in five games with Murray.

Just as important is the improved offensive performance is the play of some of Arizona's key skill position players. Trey McBride has four touchdowns in the last three games, matching his total from his previous 21 games dating back to Week 18 of the 2023 season.

Marvin Harrison Jr. tied his season-high with 10 targets and caught a season-high seven passes in last week's 27-17 win over the Dallas Cowboys. That's only one game against a bad defense, but it's at least an encouraging sign for the Cardinals going forward.

The cost of moving on from Murray, who is under contract through 2028, after this season wouldn't be that prohibitive for the Cardinals. They would absorb a $47.5 million dead cap charge and save $5.7 million against the 2026 cap if they released him with a post-June 1 designation.

If the Cardinals were able to find a team willing to trade for Murray in the offseason, their dead cap hit would only be $17.9 million. Their salary cap savings would be $35.3 million.

Murray's value will be fascinating to see if he becomes available. The 28-year-old has had long stretches of elite-level play. He was considered a top-five MVP candidate deep into the 2021 season.

His size and durability are becoming more concerning. He has missed multiple games in four of the last five years, including this season.

The upside remains high that Murray can be a quality starter in the NFL going forward. It's just up to the Cardinals to decide if they want to keep rolling with him in 2026 or explore alternative options at quarterback.