Kyler Murray to start for Vikings in Week 1 against Packers

The Minnesota Vikings have selected veteran quarterback Kyler Murray as the starter for their opening game against the Green Bay Packers on Sept. 13, according to reports from ESPN. Murray, who is entering his eighth NFL season after seven years with the Arizona Cardinals, signed a one-year contract with Minnesota after the Cardinals released him.

Murray, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2019 draft, has compiled 121 passing touchdowns, 60 interceptions and 20,460 passing yards in 87 starts, and added 3,193 rushing yards with 32 rushing touchdowns. Injuries have limited his recent play, including a torn ACL in December 2022 and a mid-foot sprain in Week 5 of the 2025 season.

The Vikings, who finished the 2025 season 9-8, used multiple quarterbacks—J.J. McCarthy, Carson Wentz and Max Brosmer—who combined for 17 touchdowns and 21 interceptions. McCarthy, the 10th overall pick in the 2024 draft, missed the 2024 season with a torn meniscus and dealt with several injuries in 2025, completing 57.6% of his passes for 11 touchdowns and 12 interceptions.

Head coach Kevin O'Connell said both Murray and McCarthy would receive first- and second-team reps during training camp, emphasizing the need for stability at the position. ESPN’s Kevin Seifert noted that Murray was the “heavy favorite” to win the job. The team hopes Murray’s experience will help capitalize on its roster talent and return to the playoffs.