What's Happening?
The Arizona Cardinals have decided to bench their starting quarterback, Kyler Murray, in favor of backup Jacoby Brissett. This decision comes amidst Murray's ongoing struggles with injuries, poor performance,
and off-field issues. Head coach Jonathan Gannon indicated that even if Murray were healthy, Brissett would have started in Week 10. This move suggests that the Cardinals are likely to trade Murray in the upcoming offseason, as speculated by Bleacher Report. Murray, who has not had a successful season since 2021, is seen as a potential franchise quarterback by teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers, who are in need of a high-caliber QB to complement their Super Bowl-contending roster.
Why It's Important?
The benching of Kyler Murray and the potential trade could significantly impact the NFL landscape. For the Cardinals, trading Murray could provide them with valuable draft capital to rebuild their team. For the Steelers, acquiring Murray could revitalize their offense, which has struggled to find a quarterback of his caliber since Ben Roethlisberger's injury in 2019. Murray's athletic prime and pedigree as a Heisman Trophy winner and two-time Pro Bowler make him an attractive option for teams seeking a dynamic quarterback. This situation highlights the shifting dynamics in the NFL, where teams are constantly evaluating and adjusting their rosters to remain competitive.
What's Next?
The Cardinals are expected to shop Kyler Murray around during the offseason, with potential suitors like the Pittsburgh Steelers showing interest. The trade could involve late-Day 1 or several Day 2 draft picks, depending on the perceived value of Murray as a franchise quarterback. Teams will likely assess Murray's potential for redemption and his ability to fit into their offensive schemes. The Steelers, in particular, may see this as an opportunity to enhance their roster and make a serious push for the Super Bowl with a quarterback who can unlock new offensive capabilities.
