Yes, the Cardinals and quarterback Kyler Murray are destined for an offseason divorce .

Friday’s announcement that Murray won’t play again this year for the Cardinals wasn’t a surprise. For some, it was expected .

The Cardinals already owe Murray $39.8 million, fully guaranteed, for 2026. If he’s on the roster on the fifth day of the 2026 league year, another $19.5 million in 2027 salary becomes fully guaranteed, too.

The Cardinals need Murray to be healthy before the day the guarantee vests. If he isn’t, they can’t avoid the 2027 guarantee by cutting him.

It may be academic, if his foot injury from Week 5 isn’t fully healed by March. Even if he’s currently healthy, there’s no reason to risk an injury that would open the door to another $19.5 million for Murray.

It’s the f

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