"I was a fan of the Vikings as a child," Murray said, citing the coaching staff and roster as key factors in his decision.
The Minnesota Vikings have signed quarterback Kyler Murray to a one-year contract, creating a competition for the starting position with 2024 first-round draft pick J.J. McCarthy. Murray joins the team after being released by the Arizona Cardinals.
Murray’s Signing and Contract Terms
Murray signed a one-year deal worth the veteran minimum of $1.3 million for the 2026 season. Due to offset language in his previous contract, the Arizona Cardinals will pay the remainder of his $36.8 million salary.
Murray’s low-cost contract helps the Vikings, who faced a salary-cap deficit exceeding $40 million, allocate resources toward other roster needs.
During his introductory press conference, Murray stated he was a fan of the Vikings as a child and cited the team's coaching staff and roster as factors in his decision to sign.
Quarterback Competition
The Vikings have not named a starter for Week 1 of the upcoming season. The team’s head coach, Kevin O’Connell, stated that the organization sought an experienced quarterback to challenge McCarthy.
Wide receiver Justin Jefferson commented on the situation, saying he has observed McCarthy growing "a lot more confident" since last season. Regarding Murray, Jefferson noted his "speed, his quickness, his arm strength." Jefferson stated that the addition of Murray creates pressure on McCarthy to "step it up a little bit" and that the situation requires "a competitive mindset."
Murray’s Previous Tenure with the Arizona Cardinals
The Cardinals selected Murray first overall in the 2019 NFL Draft. He earned Offensive Rookie of the Year honors and made back-to-back Pro Bowls in 2020 and 2021.
Over six seasons, Murray compiled a 38-48-1 record as a starter and surpassed 3,000 passing yards four times, including in 2024. He played in one playoff game, a wild-card loss in 2021.
In his final season with the Cardinals, Murray started five games, completing 962 passing yards with six touchdowns and three interceptions, and posted a 2-3 record before a foot injury ended his season.
McCarthy’s Status with the Vikings
McCarthy, selected 10th overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, has missed playing time due to a series of injuries in his first two professional seasons, including a meniscus tear, hand injuries, a high ankle sprain, and a concussion.
Coach-Player Relationship
Murray stated he has a history of respect for O'Connell, noting the coach had stayed in contact with him since an interview at the NFL Combine when O'Connell was with Washington.
O'Connell highlighted Murray’s accuracy, fundamentals, and experience playing from the pocket as reasons for the signing. A challenge for the coaching staff will be integrating Murray’s playmaking style, which differs from the Vikings’ established offensive system.