Vikings announce Kyler Murray as starting quarterback for 2026 season

The Minnesota Vikings confirmed that Kyler Murray will be the team's primary quarterback for the 2026 season, ending the quarterback competition that had continued through spring practices and training camp. The decision, reported by ESPN reporter Adam Schefter, follows Murray's acquisition on a one-year, $1.3 million contract after his release from the Arizona Cardinals, where he was sidelined by a foot injury in 2025.

Murray, the former No. 1 overall pick, joins a Vikings roster that has started a different quarterback in each of the past four seasons. The team’s depth chart lists J.J. McCarthy as the backup, with veteran Carson Wentz also under contract on a one-year, $3 million deal.

McCarthy, the 2025 second-round pick, appeared in 10 games last season, posting a passer rating of 72.6 and throwing more interceptions (11) than touchdowns (10). Head coach Kevin O’Connell and his staff indicated that Murray offered a stronger immediate option at the position.

The Vikings finished the 2025 campaign with a five-game winning streak after a mid-season slump, and they retained defensive coordinator Brian Flores. Murray’s performance will be a key factor in the team’s effort to return to the playoffs in 2026.

"Murray’s addition gives us the veteran presence we need at quarterback," O’Connell said in a team statement.

Murray will be a pending free agent after the 2026 season, and his future contract prospects will depend on his play under the Vikings’ offensive system.