Kyler Murray appeared to be nearing a return to full health following a foot injury when it became clear he would not resume starting quarterback duties upon being medically cleared. Shortly thereafter, the Cardinals moved him to injured return. 
That decision ensured an absence of at least four weeks. As early as Wednesday, though, Murray could return to practice. Head coach Jonathan Gannon was asked by ESPN’s Josh Weinfuss if the team plans on opening Murray’s practice window this week, but he replied, “I’m not sure.”
Since Gannon revealed Murray would not immediately reprise his starting role upon being cleared, speculation has understandably increased about a parting of ways taking place this coming offseason. Murray is already owed $36.8MM in guaranteed salary for 2026, so a trade or release would have major cap implications. The former No. 1 pick’s base salary ($19.5MM) is set to vest in March, so a decision will need to be made by that point.
A recent report indicated the Cardinals could elect to retain the current regime featuring Gannon and general manager Monti Ossenfort and in doing so allow for a reset under center. Gannon and Ossenfort were both hired in 2023, well after Murray had been drafted. Year 3 of the Ossenfort-Gannon tandem has not gone to plan, and Arizona sits at 3-9 on the year. That leaves the Cardinals as one of the teams already eliminated from playoff contention and a potential candidate to select a passer during the opening round of April’s draft.
Murray’s entire seven-year career has taken place in Arizona, but a change in organizational direction could leave him on the move relatively soon. The 28-year-old would be an interesting target for other teams seeking at least a short-term move at the position, but of course his market value will be heavily influenced by his health. Receiving clearance for the end of the campaign would be a welcomed development for all involved.
The coming days will thus be important with respect to Murray’s status over the closing weeks of the season. A return to full health – even without any accompanying playing time – would add an interesting layer to Arizona’s final games of 2025. Whether or not the team plans to open Murray’s practice window in the near future will be worth monitoring.