The Arizona Cardinals are expected to part ways with quarterback Kyler Murray during the 2026 offseason, bringing to an end a tumultuous seven-year tenure in the desert. As speculation mounts regarding Murray’s departure, questions arise about the timing and logistics of the move, particularly where he might land next. Recently, the Indianapolis Colts have emerged as a potential trade candidate for the dynamic quarterback.
In recent developments, the Colts faced a significant setback when starting quarterback Daniel Jones sustained a season-ending Achilles injury. To address their quarterback crisis, the team brought in 44-year-old Philip Rivers, an unlikely savior for their current season aspirations. While Rivers’ experience provides some stability, it’s clear that he is not a long-term solution. Interestingly, Jones, who was enjoying a renaissance in Indianapolis, is set to enter free agency following this season. The Colts had been expected to keep Jones around, but his injury complicates matters significantly.
A recent analysis highlighted the financial implications of retaining Jones, mentioning that the proposed franchise tag of $46 million for a player unlikely to be ready at the start of the next season would severely compromise the Colts’ salary cap flexibility. As a result, it is likely that the Colts will allow Jones to explore free agency in March, thus opening the door for them to explore other options.
Murray’s name has surfaced in conversations regarding potential trades, as both he and the Cardinals were mentioned in discussions about quarterback-needy teams for the upcoming offseason. With Jacoby Brissett locked in as a backup for the Cardinals through 2026, Murray’s desirability may increase, making a trade more feasible.
The Colts are in a prime position to target a veteran quarterback. With nearly $50 million in projected cap space for 2026, they could feasibly accommodate Murray’s contract. However, it’s likely that the Cardinals would need to negotiate some salary relief to make the deal appealing. In addition, Murray may find a good fit in the Colts’ system under head coach Shane Steichen, who has a close working relationship with Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon.
Other teams that could potentially be in the market for a quarterback include the Atlanta Falcons, Cleveland Browns, Los Angeles Rams, Las Vegas Raiders, Miami Dolphins, Minnesota Vikings, New Orleans Saints, New York Jets, and Pittsburgh Steelers, further complicating the trade landscape for Murray. As the offseason approaches, all eyes will be on how these developments unfold and where Murray ultimately lands.
