Cardinals releasing $36.8 million two-time Pro Bowl QB could be of interest to Vikings, Steelers

Although it was reported on Mar. 3 (via a tweet from ESPN’s Adam Schefter) that the Arizona Cardinals would release their two-time Pro Bowl quarterback, the franchise will be forced to wait until 4 p.m. ET on Mar. 11 to complete the noteworthy roster move. 

Fortunately for Arizona, the time is almost here, allowing them to finally wash their hands of their former first-round pick, Kyler Murray, after seven seasons.  

Murray, who is owed $36.8 million in 2026, could certainly be of interest to the Minnesota Vikings and Pittsburgh Steelers.

From the Vikings’ perspective, the four-time Super Bowl champions need more stability at the quarterback position after J.J. McCarthy’s rocky rookie season in Minnesota. Yes, McCarthy missed several games last year due to injuries, but when healthy, the Michigan product was far from stellar. 

From accuracy issues to questionable footwork in the pocket, McCarthy found it challenging to establish a rhythm with the Vikings in Year 1. The 23-year-old finished his first NFL campaign with 1,632 passing yards, 11 touchdowns, 12 interceptions, six fumbles, and a 57.6% completion percentage in 10 contests. 

Although Murray has also experienced health concerns and ball placement issues lately, he’s already exhibited flashes of brilliance as a starting NFL quarterback (two Pro Bowl Nods and Offensive Rookie of the Year nods), making it logical for the Vikings to consider adding him to their quarterback room this offseason. 

As for the Steelers, it’s unclear if Aaron Rodgers will be back in Pittsburgh for another campaign at age 42. Regardless, the Steelers should be open to signing an experienced quarterback as part of their future plans, as Rodgers won’t be in the NFL forever.

Pittsburgh may feel comfortable handing the keys to Will Howard once Rodgers retires. Still, what harm could adding Murray cause to the organization? It’s always nice to have a fallback plan if the next quarterback in line underperforms, explaining why it would be wise for Pittsburgh to pursue Murray from the get-go. 

Needless to say, Murray will have his fair share of free agent suitors moving forward.

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