The Minnesota Vikings’ decision to bring back veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins could have major implications for Kyler Murray. Minnesota has one of the league’s best defenses, but its latest quarterback move may signal that Murray’s time with the team is nearing an end.
Cousins, a former four-time Pro Bowler, spent less than a year with the Las Vegas Raiders before returning to Minnesota. Murray, meanwhile, joined the Vikings after leaving the Arizona Cardinals, the team that selected him in the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft and where he spent his entire career.
Murray initially had a chance to revive his career in Minnesota. He won the starting job over J.J. McCarthy, who had been acquired in a trade with the New York Giants. But the Vikings have struggled to find consistent quarterback play since Sam Darnold’s one-year stint with the team. Darnold left Minnesota two years ago, and the Vikings have not returned to the postseason since.
With Cousins back in the picture, Murray’s role—and his future with the club—are uncertain.
## Could Kyler Murray Consider Retirement?
Murray will turn 30 next year and is set to become an unrestricted free agent. If he receives little interest on the open market, he could face a difficult decision about whether to continue playing. Retirement is one possibility, though he could also pursue a backup role and try to earn another opportunity to start.
His next step may depend partly on how the Vikings finish the 2026 season. If Cousins leads Minnesota to the NFC Championship Game in January, it could make Murray’s departure more likely. Head coach Kevin O’Connell has not officially named Cousins the starter for the rest of the season, but his return gives Minnesota an experienced option at quarterback.
Should Murray leave, several teams could consider giving him a chance to compete for a role.
## Five Potential Landing Spots for Kyler Murray
### 5. Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens reportedly intend to pursue a new contract with Lamar Jackson after the 2026 season, despite his injury concerns. Jackson’s current deal runs through the 2027 season, and he has a trade clause that would allow him to choose his next team.
Baltimore does not appear to need a permanent replacement for Jackson. However, if he were to leave, the team could look for a mobile quarterback with a similar style. Murray’s athleticism and experience could make him a potential fit in that scenario.
### 4. Atlanta Falcons
Atlanta has not found a long-term franchise quarterback since the Matt Ryan era. The Falcons initially committed to Kirk Cousins, then drafted Michael Penix Jr. the same year. Penix remains with the team, while Atlanta also added Tua Tagovailoa on a one-year deal this past offseason.
If the Falcons continue to have uncertainty at quarterback, they could consider another option. Murray might get an opportunity to compete for playing time, particularly if the team remains dissatisfied with its current choices.
### 3. Los Angeles Rams
The Rams’ outlook for the rest of the 2026 season has become more challenging with wide receiver Puka Nacua on injured reserve. Quarterback Matthew Stafford considered retirement after the 2025 season but ultimately returned. If Los Angeles misses the playoffs in January, Stafford could reconsider his future.
The Rams drafted Ty Simpson, but there is no guarantee he will be ready to take over as the starter next offseason. If Stafford retires and Simpson needs more time, Murray could give Los Angeles another experienced option. Head coach Sean McVay is also viewed as a coach who could help a quarterback reset and compete for a starting role.
### 2. New Orleans Saints
Tyler Shough took over as the Saints’ starting quarterback after the 2025 season, replacing Spencer Rattler. Shough has struggled during the past year and also dealt with a hand injury this season.
If his performance does not improve, New Orleans could look to add a quarterback, potentially through the draft or free agency. The Saints have not found sustained success at the position since Drew Brees. Murray may not be a permanent solution, but he could compete with Shough for the starting job next year.
### 1. Indianapolis Colts
Indianapolis could be an appealing opportunity for Murray if the team enters a rebuilding period. The Colts have considered trading quarterback Daniel Jones and running back Jonathan Taylor, raising questions about the direction of the roster.
The team could pursue a veteran quarterback in next year’s free agency. Murray might be viewed as a more reliable backup option than Anthony Richardson, while also having the chance to compete for the starting role. If Indianapolis is looking to reassess its quarterback plans, Murray’s experience could make him a candidate.
For now, Murray’s immediate future depends on the Vikings’ quarterback decisions and how the team performs with Cousins back. If Cousins establishes himself as Minnesota’s preferred starter, Murray may need to seek a new team—and a fresh opportunity—next season.
