As trade rumors continue to swirl around Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray, a clearer picture is emerging of his perceived value across the NFL. According to recent reports, league executives are skeptical that the Cardinals could secure a significant return for the former No. 1 overall pick, creating a complex situation for both the player and the franchise.
Arizona Cardinals May Be Entering A Depressed Market
Several key factors are contributing to the cautious approach from potential trade partners. The most significant concern is Murray’s recent injury history. His 2025 season was cut short after just five games due to a foot injury, marking the second time in three years he has missed the majority of a campaign. He was limited to only eight games in 2023 while recovering from a torn ACL. This pattern raises serious questions about his durability.
Compounding the issue is his substantial contract. Murray is signed through 2027 with a club option for 2028. He is owed $39.8 million in guaranteed money for the 2026 season, with another $17 million in guarantees kicking in for 2027 if he remains on the Cardinals’ roster past March 15. This hefty financial commitment makes any trade a high-risk proposition for an acquiring team, especially given his recent availability issues.
According to a report from The Athletic, team executives around the league are “skeptical Murray would fetch much, if anything, in an offseason trade.” This sentiment suggests that the combination of his contract and injury history has significantly lowered his market value from the days when he was a two-time Pro Bowler.
Potential Suitors and a Changing Market
Despite the concerns, the possibility of a trade isn’t entirely off the table. The market for quarterbacks could shift depending on how the NFL Draft unfolds and which teams find themselves without a viable option. A lack of other available veterans could increase demand for a player with Murray’s talent.
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler has suggested a potential landing spot could be the Minnesota Vikings. The idea is that head coach Kevin O’Connell could work to rehabilitate Murray’s career, similar to his recent success with other quarterbacks. However, whether the Vikings would be willing to absorb his large contract remains a significant hurdle.
Other teams potentially in the market for a quarterback, such as the Las Vegas Raiders, Tennessee Titans, and New York Jets, will also be watching the situation closely. For now, the consensus is that the Cardinals would have to accept a less-than-premium return to move on from Murray, making any potential split a difficult and calculated decision.
