Amid reported friction with Kyler Murray, Cardinals say they have 'high regard' for franchise QB
If there’s any mutual discontent between the Arizona Cardinals and star quarterback Kyler Murray, the Cardinals are saying otherwise — publicly, at least.
The Cardinals released a statement Sunday saying that they have “high regard” for Murray, the team’s No. 1 pick in the 2019 draft, and that he is the quarterback that will lead them moving forward.
“Nothing has changed regarding our opinion and high regard for Kyler Murray,” the statement says via Pro Football Talk. “We as a team and Kyler individually have improved each year he’s been in the league. We are excited to continue that improvement in 2022 and are excited that Kyler Murray is the quarterback leading us.”
That statement was put out on the heels of an ESPN report that said there are frustrations on both sides of the Cardinals-Murray relationship.
Many noticed when Murray recently removed all references to the Cardinals on his social media accounts. That came after the Cardinals’ ugly 34-11 loss to the Los Angeles Rams in the wild card round.
According to ESPN’s Chris Mortensen, Murray was “embarrassed” by the loss and is “frustrated with the franchise.” Additionally, Murray “thinks he’s been framed as the scapegoat” for the way the season ended, per Mortensen.
Those sentiments reportedly go both ways, however. Still, the Cardinals are hopeful things will calm down with Murray over the course of the offseason as they turn the page toward the 2022 season.
The Cardinals have their own concerns about Murray, with sources describing the 2019 No. 1 overall pick as self-centered, immature and someone who points fingers.
Arizona coach Kliff Kingsbury is said to be self-scouting where he can provide better alternatives to help Murray, according to sources. Meanwhile, select veterans on the team hope to reach out to Murray on how the 24-year-old can better handle adversity, sources said.
Despite the acrimony, the Cardinals expect things to calm down and for Murray to be their quarterback of the present and future.
Kyler Murray eligible for contract extension
The 24-year-old Murray quickly emerged as a star during his time in the NFL. He won Rookie of the Year and has twice been named to the Pro Bowl. In 2021, Murray threw for 3,787 yards, 24 touchdowns and 10 interceptions while completing a career-high 69.2% of his passes. He also rushed for 423 yards and five scores on the year.
The Cardinals won 10 of their first 12 games but crumbled down the stretch. They lost four of their final five regular-season games, surrendering their NFC West lead to the Rams.
Murray is entering the final year of his rookie contract and is thus eligible for a contract extension this offseason. It remains to be seen whether this apparent friction could be an impediment to the two sides getting a deal done.
