Updated March 4, 2026, 12:01 p.m. ET
The Atlanta Falcons may be in the market for a quarterback in free agency, and a pretty good one just became available. The Arizona Cardinals are planning to release Kyler Murray at the start of the new league year, leaving the former No. 1 overall pick free to sign with any team.
Murray, a two-time Pro Bowler and former AP Offensive Rookie of the Year, has passed for 20,460 yards, 121 touchdowns and 60 interceptions over his first seven NFL seasons. The dual-threat QB has also rushed for 3,193 yards and 32 touchdowns on the ground since entering the league in 2019.
The Falcons are cutting Kirk Cousins and will need to add a quality backup in free agency. Michael Penix Jr. is the presumed starter, but he’s coming off an ACL injury. Would the team consider adding someone like Murray to start in 2026?
Jordan Dajani of CBS Sports listed the Falcons as one of five potential landing spots for Murray in free agency.
“The Atlanta Falcons are expected to move on from Kirk Cousins, and Michael Penix Jr. is recovering from a torn ACL suffered just three months ago,” wrote Dajani. “If I were Matt Ryan and Kevin Stefanski, I would be in the market for a quarterback. It’s not like Penix has been a revelation either. He’s 4-8 as a starter, and has two 300-yard games compared to four starts where he failed to cross 200 yards passing. The Falcons are a team that could be in the market for a veteran starter — if the price is right.”
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Murray, 28, has missed 27 games over the last four seasons. His size (5-10, 207 pounds) and playing style have made him more susceptible to injuries throughout his career.
Considering his injury history and massive payout from the Cardinals, Murray will likely choose the team he feels is the best fit, rather than simply going to the highest bidder.
The new league year for the 2026 NFL season officially begins on March 11.
