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Kyler Murray might make a surprise return to baseball after Cardinals release

Mar 5, 2026, 1:53 AM40
(Update: Mar 5, 2026, 4:22 PM)
American football and baseball player (born 1997)
professional American football league

Kyler Murray might make a surprise return to baseball after Cardinals release

  • Kyler Murray is set to be released by the Arizona Cardinals as they seek a new direction in their quarterback position.
  • The Oakland Athletics, who previously drafted Murray, have expressed openness to his return to baseball.
  • Murray's future is uncertain as he considers his options in the NFL and a potential comeback to baseball.
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Story

In an unexpected turn of events, Kyler Murray, former quarterback of the Arizona Cardinals, was informed he would be released once the new NFL season begins on March 13, 2026. Murray, previously a dual-sport athlete, was selected as the first overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft and was also picked No. 9 in the 2018 MLB Draft by the Oakland Athletics. With his NFL career in jeopardy, the Athletics' general manager, David Forst, did not dismiss rumors of a potential comeback for Murray in baseball, stating they are open to him exploring that possibility. This opens up a unique opportunity for Murray to redefine his athletic career after years away from competitive baseball. Financially, Murray has a guaranteed $36.8 million from the Cardinals, which creates an intriguing dynamic in his decision-making process. He must weigh whether to seek another opportunity in the NFL or pursue baseball, a sport where he initially showed immense potential. The situation is complicated further by the Cardinals' current situation at quarterback, potentially leading to new partnerships or signings based on Murray's decisions.

Context

Kyler Murray, an American football quarterback, has made a significant impact in the National Football League (NFL) since being drafted by the Arizona Cardinals as the first overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft. Standing at 5 feet 10 inches tall, Murray is known for his unique combination of speed, agility, and throwing ability that has redefined the quarterback position in the modern game. His college career at the University of Oklahoma earned him the prestigious Heisman Trophy in 2018, showcasing his exceptional talent and athleticism on the field. As of the end of the 2023 season, Murray's career statistics reflect his dynamic skill set and his importance to the Cardinals organization. During his initial seasons in the league, Kyler displayed impressive numbers that positioned him as one of the promising young quarterbacks. Throughout his career, Murray has completed approximately 66% of his passes, indicating his accuracy as a passer. His ability to extend plays with his legs has resulted in a dual-threat capability, seeing him accumulate significant rushing yards alongside his passing stats. He has averaged over 230 passing yards per game, showcasing his proficiency in moving the offense down the field. Moreover, his efficiency ratings, including passer rating and touchdown-to-interception ratio, have steadily improved, demonstrating his growth and maturity as a quarterback. In addition to his individual statistics, Kyler Murray's influence on the Cardinals' performance cannot be overstated. His presence has led to improved team records since his entry into the league, and he has been instrumental in leading the team to playoff appearances, a significant achievement for the franchise. With a solid coaching staff and an evolving offense built around his strengths, Murray continues to work on refining his skills to become one of the league's top quarterbacks. His leadership on and off the field has inspired teammates and brought excitement to the Arizona fan base. As Murray continues his career beyond 2023, many analysts anticipate that he will remain a key player to watch in the NFL. With ongoing advancements in his performance and continued development in his playing style, expectations are high for his contribution to the Cardinals and the league. The combination of his athletic prowess, work ethic, and competitive spirit makes Kyler Murray a quarterback whose career is just beginning to unfold, and it is highly anticipated that he will etch his name further into the annals of NFL history.

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