ESPN’s Bill Barnwell outlined trade scenarios, centering Murray to the New York Jets for a fourth-round pick as the most plausible exchange. The Jets, who have ample cap space and a need for a veteran quarterback, would likely benefit from pairing Murray with an offensive system coachable by Frank Reich, who will run the Jets’ offense.
For Arizona, a Murray trade would yield significant cap relief—roughly $34.7 million—and provide flexibility to rebuild under new head coach Mike LaFleur. The club may consider Jacoby Brissett’s $9.19 million cap charge as a short-term option, but the franchise appears poised to explore a broader strategic reset.
If the Cardinals move on from Murray, they could pursue a free-agent quarterback such as Packers backup Malik Willis, or wait for the draft, where Alabama’s Ty Simpson is a potential top option. Arizona holds the No. 3 pick, and the decision could hinge on whether they trade down to secure more assets or commit to developing a passer in this year’s class, which Barnwell notes is relatively weak at the top.
The potential trade would steer Arizona’s immediate future toward cap savings and roster retooling, while the Jets would address their quarterback need with veteran stability. The broader outcome remains contingent on how teams value Murray’s contract versus the draft capital offered in any deal.
This report reflects analysis from Heavy Sports, with consideration of Barnwell’s proposed scenarios and the current market context for quarterback trades entering the new league year.
