The Arizona Cardinals' hopes for the remainder of the 2025 NFL season have been dealt a crushing blow. The franchise confirmed on Friday that their star quarterback, Kyler Murray, will not play again this year, bringing an abrupt end to his campaign.
Injury Setback Seals Murray's Fate
Murray has been sidelined since Week 5 after sustaining a foot injury against the Tennessee Titans. Recent additional medical tests and a second opinion sought out of state revealed disappointing news. The recovery process has not progressed as anticipated, making a return this season impossible.
Head coach Jonathan Gannon addressed the media to provide clarity on the situation. "Kyler underwent more tests this week and even went out of state for another opinion," Gannon stated. "Unfortunately, his foot isn't improving enough for him to return, so he'll be done for the year." While expressing clear disappointment, Gannon emphasized the team's focus on finishing the season strongly while planning their next moves.
Financial Crossroads for the Cardinals
This development forces the Cardinals into a critical evaluation of their quarterback future, complicated significantly by Murray's lucrative contract. The financial implications are substantial and will dictate the franchise's strategic direction.
Kyler Murray, the 2019 Heisman Trophy winner and NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year, has shown flashes of brilliance with Pro Bowl selections in 2020 and 2021 and a playoff run in 2021. However, injuries and inconsistency have clouded his long-term outlook in Arizona.
The contract details present a complex puzzle for the front office:
- Murray is guaranteed $36.8 million for the 2026 season.
- An additional $19.5 million of his 2027 base salary becomes guaranteed if he is on the roster five days after the new NFL league year begins.
- Releasing him before June 1 would result in a massive $57.7 million dead cap hit.
- A post-June 1 release would spread the hit, costing $50.5 million in 2026 and $7.2 million in 2027.
Exploring Trade and Roster Options
A trade emerges as a potentially more palatable financial path. According to NFL insider Adam Schefter, a trade could free up approximately $35.3 million in salary cap space for the Cardinals while incurring a dead money charge of $17.9 million.
With Murray officially out, the Cardinals' immediate on-field plans are clear, but the long-term quarterback question is now wide open. The organization must weigh the decision of building around Murray against the possibility of a trade that offers cap relief and a chance to reset. Salary cap implications and roster planning will be the dominant factors shaping the Cardinals' strategy for the 2026 season and beyond.
The coming months will be crucial for Arizona as they navigate this high-stakes quarterback dilemma, balancing financial pragmatism with their competitive aspirations.
