While the Arizona Cardinals and QB Kyler Murray appear sprinting toward divorce, the manner in which that happens remains to be determined. We've outlined a few possible scenarios via both trade & release that could become reality in the coming week(s).

GUARANTEED CASH

Regardless of the scenario, Murray is owed $36.8M cash in 2026 ($22.835M of base salary, $13.965 of roster bonus), all of which is subject to offset language contractually. This sets up Murray to sign elsewhere at a league minimum $1.3M this season.

RELEASE SCENARIOS


Outright Release (Pre 6/1)
2026 Dead Cap: $54.7M (-$2M saved)

Standard Post 6/1 Designation
Arizona carries his $52.6M cap hit into June, then takes on dead hits of $47.5M in 2026; $7.2M in 2027. This would unlock $5.1M of savings in June.

Base Salary Conversion + Post 6/1 Release
Arizona carries a $35.4M cap hit into June, then takes on dead hits of $30.3M in 2026; $24.4M in 2027. This would unlock $17.2M of savings in March; $6.4M more in June.

Salary/Roster Bonus Conversion + Post 6/1 Release
Arizona carries a $24.2M cap hit into June, then takes on dead hits of $19.1M in 2026; $35.6M in 2027. This would unlock $28.4M of savings in March; $5.1M more in June.

EARLY TRADE SCENARIOS


Pre 6/1 Trade
Arizona takes on $17.9M of dead cap ($34.7M saved)

New Team Acquires:
2026: $41,942,500 ($36.8M guaranteed)
2027: $36,335,000 ($19.5M guarantees this March 15th)
2028: $46,350,000 (non-guaranteed)

Pre 6/1 Trade w/ Retained Roster Bonus
Arizona takes on $34.9M of dead cap ($17.7M saved)

New Team Acquires:
2026: $24,942,500 ($22.8M guaranteed)
2027: $36,335,000 ($19.5M guarantees this March 15th)
2028: $46,350,000 (non-guaranteed)