Kyler Murray’s Future with the Cardinals in Doubt
The decision to draft Kyler Murray with the ninth overall pick in the 2018 MLB Draft quickly raised eyebrows across the sports world. The Athletics took a gamble by allowing him to play an additional season of college football, thinking, “What’s the worst that could happen?” As it turned out, that gamble paid off in a way nobody anticipated. Murray went on to capture the prestigious Heisman Trophy, which catapulted him into the spotlight and ultimately led to his selection as the No. 1 overall pick by the Arizona Cardinals in the 2019 NFL Draft.
The Athletics had invested in Murray without any strings attached—no requirement to actually play baseball. This decision turned into a significant misstep, as the team forfeited their chance at a redo pick in the following year’s draft. Essentially, they sacrificed a valuable first-round selection, a move that stings even more given the often unpredictable nature of the draft. The loss of that first-rounder proved costly, especially when considering the limited success teams typically experience when picking from the collegiate ranks.
Injury and Uncertainty Surrounding Murray
Fast forward to the present, and Murray’s future in Arizona hangs in the balance. The 29-year-old quarterback has landed on injured reserve, leaving the door open for 32-year-old journeyman Jacoby Brissett to step in. Brissett has surprisingly performed well in relief, earning the trust of the coaching staff and fans alike. His steady play raises questions about the Cardinals’ direction moving forward.
Amid this backdrop, the Cardinals face a pivotal decision regarding Murray’s contract. Reports indicate that if he remains on the roster by a certain date in March, an additional $19.5 million in guaranteed money will kick in. This looming financial obligation adds a layer of complexity to the Cardinals’ situation, with many speculating that it may lead to a parting of ways.
The narrative surrounding Murray’s tenure in Arizona is shifting, and the prevailing sentiment suggests that he may be on the move. As the Cardinals weigh their options, the decision they make could significantly alter the landscape of their franchise, and Murray’s future with the team remains uncertain.
