Having spent seven seasons in Arizona and only one playoff appearance, it feels like the Cardinals and Kyler Murray are heading toward a split this offseason. The timing, the on-field results, and the growing outside noise all point in the same direction. Jacoby Brissett has operated a far more efficient offense during Murray’s absence, producing more chunk plays, more points, and better success on third down.
National reporting has only pushed the situation further. On November 8, one source told ESPN’s Adam Schefter that “a separation is imminent.” With everything trending that way, it’d now be more surprising to see Murray stay than leave.
A trade still feels unlikely unless a team takes on his full contract, so a release remains the more realistic route. If that happens, several teams become legitimate landing spots.
6. New York Jets
The Jets sit at 2-8 and hold the fifth pick in the 2026 draft. They’ve also got five first-round picks over the next two seasons. The reset is already underway, following the trade of Quinnen Williams and Sauce Gardner at the deadline. Justin Fields has not stabilized the position either, posting a 35.6 QBR and appearing to be a placeholder.
New York needs a long-term QB, and the timeline aligns with what Murray can offer. There are many speculations about potential prospects for the 2026 season, like Fernando Mendoza and Reuben Bain Jr, but Murray is also on the list.
5. Las Vegas Raiders
Geno Smith’s debut season in Vegas hasn’t gone well. The Raiders sit at 2–7, while his TDs versus picks stand at 11 to 12. Despite signing a two-year deal, backup options make sense. Pete Carroll has a history of developing shorter quarterbacks – remember Russell Wilson in Seattle? If the Raiders let Smith go, Kyler Murray would be a suitable alternative.
4. Carolina Panthers
Carolina must decide on Bryce Young’s fifth-year option. His 11-26 record as a starter hasn’t shown enough progress. Releasing him would leave $12M in dead money, but the franchise needs change. The Panthers sit 16th in the 2026 draft order and may not have access to a top QB prospect. HC Dave Canales has a history of helping revive careers. Murray could become his next project.
3. Minnesota Vikings
This one’s less likely but still intriguing. Minnesota won’t swing a trade for Murray – though picking him up cheap after release might make sense. J.J. McCarthy’s been sidelined most of the time, playing just four games lately because of injuries. At times, he appears to be doing well, yet his performance still fluctuates week to week.
What they really need is someone experienced who can hold down the QB spot steady. O’Connell’s got a knack for turning overlooked guys around – remember how Darnold bounced back under him? That kind of storyline is right up what Murray could offer.
2. Pittsburgh Steelers
The Steelers become a real option because of Aaron Rodgers and the uncertainty surrounding his future. Rodgers needed months to decide if he’d play in 2025. Pittsburgh eventually convinced him by offering a final Super Bowl window, and he’s played well for most of the season. He has 18 TDs to seven interceptions and has kept the Steelers at the top of the division.
A rough outing against the Chargers created new questions. A-Rod admitted age played a role in the loss. He also said his appearance in Los Angeles might have been his last game in Southern California. Before the season, he referred to this as his final year. However, throughout the fall, he has backed away from that and said he will evaluate everything later.
If Rodgers retires, Pittsburgh is far more likely to sign a veteran than draft a rookie. Murray fits their competitive timeline and brings mobility and starting experience to a roster built to win immediately.
1. Los Angeles Rams
Matthew Stafford tops the league with 25 touchdown throws, yet doubts over his staying power keep popping up. Back troubles dominated talk all off-season. He’s still playing strong – though retirement isn’t far off. L.A. holds extra picks in 2026; instead of waiting, a short-term fix might work better. Sean McVay’s been good at boosting QBs’ games. In case Stafford steps out, Murray could step in.
These six teams could be the potential landing spots for Kyler Murray. Although details are not yet confirmed, changes are expected soon.
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