If the Minnesota Vikings find themselves unable to secure one of the top-four picks in this year’s draft, they might need to consider an alternative plan for their quarterback situation. One potential option could involve pursuing a trade for Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray.
In a recent mock draft by ESPN’s Mike Tannenbaum, he proposed a scenario where the Cardinals move on from Murray and select J.J. McCarthy as the fourth quarterback chosen. Tannenbaum suggests that the Vikings could offer their 11th overall pick and receive Murray along with a third-round selection from Arizona.
Tannenbaum acknowledges that the proposed trade might seem steep, likening it to the Cardinals’ strategy in the 2022 draft when they traded their first-round pick for wide receiver Marquise Brown and a third-rounder. He argues that while Murray’s durability remains a concern, acquiring him could be financially advantageous for the Vikings compared to re-signing Kirk Cousins, offering them a chance to compete immediately rather than undergo a rebuild.
However, despite the merits of Tannenbaum’s suggestion, the cost of acquiring Murray could prove too high for Minnesota. Murray’s lucrative contract extension signed in 2022 makes him one of the highest-paid quarterbacks in the league, and trading him before June 1 would result in significant dead cap for the Cardinals. This financial burden could deter the Vikings, especially considering their past efforts to avoid similar contractual commitments with Cousins.
Although Murray’s talent is undeniable, with accolades such as Offensive Rookie of the Year and multiple Pro Bowl selections, some league executives have dismissed the idea of trading him due to the challenges posed by his contract. Nevertheless, if the Vikings perceive themselves as contenders and are willing to manage their finances creatively, acquiring Murray could be a short-term solution.
The Vikings have historically been on the fringe of playoff contention but have struggled to advance deep into the postseason. Despite their ability to win close games, their roster depth and salary cap constraints have limited their playoff success. However, the prospect of acquiring a cost-effective rookie quarterback with Pro Bowl potential could change the team’s trajectory and provide a path to sustained competitiveness in the future.