The Minnesota Vikings have named Kyler Murray their starting quarterback, sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter. He signed a one-year, $1.3 million contract after his release by the Arizona Cardinals, who will pay him $35.5 million. The decision pushes **J.

J. McCarthy, the No. 10 pick of the 2024 draft, to the sideline after 10 career starts and raises questions about his future.\n\nMurray, 29**, spent seven seasons with the Cardinals after being selected No. 1 overall in 2019. He won Rookie of the Year and made two Pro Bowls, but injuries derailed his past three seasons.

The Vikings, after firing general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah in part due to quarterback instability, immediately expressed interest. Coach Kevin O'Connell sought competition after McCarthy struggled with injuries, accuracy and decision-making.\n\nMurray demonstrated an understanding of the Vikings' downfield passing offense and comfort taking snaps from under center. The coaching staff has previously revived careers of Kirk Cousins (who signed a four-year, $180 million deal with the Falcons) and Sam Darnold (who signed a three-year, $100.5 million contract with Seattle and won the Super Bowl last year).

Murray could be in a similar position next spring with a clause prohibiting the franchise tag in 2027.\n\nMcCarthy, 23, showed incremental progress but could not close the gap. After losing his rookie season to a torn meniscus and producing an underwhelming 2025, there is no obvious path for him to recapture the job unless Murray is injured.