The Arizona Cardinals have a potential strategy to part ways with Kyler Murray while minimizing their financial obligations.
Murray, who was the top overall draft pick in 2019, is currently on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list due to a torn ACL suffered in December against the New England Patriots, sidelining him for at least the initial four games of the season.
Pro Football Talk’s Mike Florio has proposed that Arizona might exploit a loophole that allows them to transition away from Murray, who inked a substantial five-year contract extension worth $230.5 million last offseason:
“Considering the Cardinals’ contemplation of a future without their 2019 top pick, it makes logical business sense to retain him on the Physically Unable to Perform list not only for the initial four weeks but for the entirety of the 2022 season.
Breaking down the details of Murray’s contract, he’s slated to receive $29.9 million in compensation for 2025, guaranteed in full by March 2024. Hence, if he sustains an injury this season and fails to pass a physical by March, the Cardinals will be obligated to cover his $37 million for 2024 (an unavoidable obligation at this point) and an additional $29.9 million for 2025. (Murray also has $26.8 million in injury guarantees for 2026.)
As the Cardinals seemingly tank, they have a legitimate business reason for keeping their best player off the field, all year long. https://t.co/XSfTcR8Gzg
— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) September 2, 2023
Even if a trade materializes after 2023, as a possibility, much of the financial burden would shift to the acquiring team. However, Murray’s new team may be reluctant to assume nearly $67 million in fully guaranteed funds, particularly if he’s unable to clear a physical in March.”
Arizona is poised to be in contention for the top overall draft pick, which could offer them the opportunity to select USC Trojans’ quarterback and reigning Heisman Trophy winner Caleb Williams.
Consequently, it’s entirely conceivable that the Cardinals may sever ties with Murray after this season in favor of a younger and healthier alternative.
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