The Arizona Cardinals chose Kyler Murray as the first overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft on April 25, 2019, in Nashville, Tennessee. As a top quarterback from Oklahoma and the 2018 Heisman Trophy winner, many expected him to be the top pick because of his excellent college performance and how well he fits into the Cardinals’ offense with new head coach Kliff Kingsbury.
After the Cardinals picked him, Murray signed a four-year rookie contract on May 9, 2019. This contract was worth $35.2 million and fully guaranteed, with a fifth-year option for the team. This marked the start of his professional career in the NFL and set the tone for his future with the Cardinals.
On July 21, 2022, Kyler Murray and the Cardinals agreed to a five-year contract extension worth $230.5 million, which included $160 million guaranteed.
This deal ensures he will play for the Cardinals until the end of the 2028 season when he will be 31 years old. The contract includes a $29.035 million signing bonus and averages $46.1 million per year, making Murray one of the highest-paid players in the league.
Analyzing Kyler Murray’s Contract And Its Financial Implications For The Cardinals
Kyler Murray’s contract details cannot be overlooked. In 2022, his base salary was $965,000, and he had a cap hit of $12,669,481, which was 6.09% of the team’s salary cap.
This amount increases significantly in later years, with a base salary of $37 million in 2024 and a cap hit of $51.4 million, making up 20.13% of the cap. By 2028, his base salary will be $34 million, with a cap hit of $46.35 million, greatly affecting the team’s financial plans.
Additionally, Kyler Murray’s contract includes a special requirement that he must complete at least four hours of independent study each week during the season.
Murray’s performance in the 2024 NFL season has been a mix of highs and lows. In Week 1, he completed 21 of 31 passes for 162 yards, one touchdown, and no interceptions in a narrow 28-34 loss to the Buffalo Bills.
Week 2 saw him excel against the Los Angeles Rams, finishing 17 of 21 for 266 yards and three touchdowns, leading to a dominant 41-10 victory. However, in Week 3, the Cardinals lost to the Detroit Lions, 13-20, with Murray completing 21 of 34 passes for 207 yards, one touchdown, and one interception.
Overall, through the first three games, he has completed 68.6% of his passes for 635 yards, five touchdowns, and one interception, boasting a passer rating of 104.6. He has also contributed 31 rushing yards.
