The Arizona Cardinals have parted ways with quarterback Kyler Murray, bringing an end to a seven-year run with the team. The news, confirmed by multiple reports on March 3rd, marks a significant shift for the Cardinals and leaves Murray’s future uncertain. Whereas his NFL career faces a crossroads, a potential return to baseball – the sport he excelled in before becoming a football star – is now a distinct possibility.
Murray, selected first overall in the 2019 NFL Draft, was a dual-sport athlete with exceptional talent in both baseball and football. Prior to his NFL career, he was drafted ninth overall by the Oakland Athletics (now the Oakland A’s) in the 2018 MLB Draft. This rare feat of being a high-round draft pick in both major American sports immediately made him a unique prospect. The Athletics, recognizing his potential, even brought in Scott Boras, considered one of the top agents in baseball, to try and persuade him to sign with the team. However, Murray ultimately chose football, signing a lucrative contract with the Cardinals that included a $35 million signing bonus.
The decision wasn’t solely about the money. Murray reportedly felt he had a greater aptitude for football and the opportunity to be a franchise quarterback in the NFL proved too appealing to pass up. He quickly became the face of the Cardinals franchise, showcasing flashes of brilliance with his arm talent and mobility. Murray surpassed 20,000 passing yards and 3,000 rushing yards, becoming one of only a handful of quarterbacks to achieve both milestones.
However, his time in Arizona wasn’t without challenges. Injuries, particularly a right foot injury that limited him to five games in the 2023 season, hampered his development and raised concerns about his long-term durability. The Cardinals decided to move on, releasing him on March 4th, 2026. The move frees up cap space for the team as they appear to rebuild.
Now, the question becomes: what’s next for Kyler Murray? According to a report from Bleacher Report, the Athletics remain interested in a potential reunion. A team representative indicated they would welcome Murray back to baseball if he expressed interest in returning to the diamond.
The possibility of a return to baseball is intriguing, especially given Murray’s athletic gifts. While he hasn’t played organized baseball since being drafted, his natural talent and function ethic could allow him to produce a transition back to the sport. It’s a long shot, but not entirely out of the question.
Beyond baseball, Murray will likely explore opportunities with other NFL teams. Several quarterback-needy franchises could be interested in acquiring the former No. 1 overall pick, despite his recent injury history and the Cardinals’ decision to move on. His market value will depend on his health and how teams assess his potential for future success.
Murray’s connection to South Korea also adds another layer to his story. His maternal grandmother is Korean, and he has embraced his Korean heritage, even appearing on the personal YouTube channel of Korean singer Kim Jong-kook. This connection has resonated with fans in South Korea and further broadened his appeal.
The coming weeks and months will be crucial for Murray as he navigates his next career move. Whether he chooses to pursue a return to baseball, seek a new opportunity in the NFL, or explore other options, his future remains full of possibilities. The situation is developing, and further updates will be provided as they develop into available.
The Cardinals will now turn their attention to the upcoming NFL season with a new quarterback at the helm. The team is undergoing a rebuild, and the release of Murray signals a commitment to a new direction. The team’s 53-man roster for the 2026 season includes Jacoby Brissett as the current backup quarterback.
As Murray weighs his options, the sports world will be watching closely. His unique story and exceptional talent make him one of the most fascinating athletes to follow, and his next chapter promises to be just as compelling as the last.
Next Up: The NFL free agency period continues, with teams evaluating potential additions to their rosters. Murray’s next move is expected to become clearer as other quarterback situations around the league solidify. Stay tuned to Archysport for the latest updates.
