Kyler Murray's Cardinals future in limbo as offseason decision looms - ESPN

The Arizona Cardinals made a big decision this week regarding Kyler Murray. Now another decision awaits — one that impacts the future of both the quarterback and the franchise.

The Cardinals must decide by this offseason whether to try to trade Murray, release him, or opt to pay another $19.5 million in guaranteed money that becomes due on the fifth day of the new league year in mid-March.

The Cardinals and Murray are expected to have extensive discussions to help determine whether to move forward together or go their own ways. Many sources believe the latter is the likely outcome, with one source saying this week that «a separation is imminent.»

But there is plenty of time, and much to play and figure out, before either side gets to that spot. For starters, Murray was placed on injured reserve Wednesday with a mid-foot sprain, which ensures that he will miss at least four games while Arizona starts Jacoby Brissett at quarterback.

It is another opportunity for Brissett, who some around the league believe has run the Cardinals' offense at a higher and more efficient level than Murray.

With Brissett starting at quarterback this season, the Cardinals have gone 1-2, averaging 25.7 points and 357 yards per game. With Murray starting at quarterback this season, the Cardinals have gone 2-3, averaging 18.8 points and 288 yards per game.

Those, of course, are only some of the numbers; financial ones also are likely to impact this situation. As of now, Murray is guaranteed $36.8 million next year — his 2026 base salary and a large part of his roster bonus.

A key trigger date looms on the fifth day of the new league year in mid-March, when $19.5 million more of Murray's 2027 base salary would become guaranteed if he still is on the