GLENDALE – With the 2025 season being such a debacle for the Arizona Cardinals, they will now have to approach the draft with a question that could define the immediate future of the franchise. Sitting currently with the fifth overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, Arizona now has options and pressure, while they wonder if it is time to reset the clock at quarterback.
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Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray watches his team from the sidelines as they play the San Francisco 49ers at State Farm Stadium in Glendale on Nov. 16, 2025. © Joe Rondone/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Kyler Murray’s $36.8 million guaranteed next season isn’t just a salary figure; it’s leverage. Keeping Murray means committing to continuity and betting that health and system stability finally align. Moving on means absorbing short-term financial pain for long-term flexibility. Teams that hesitate at this junction often lose both paths.
Nov 8, 2025; University Park, Pennsylvania, USA; Indiana Hoosiers quarterback Mendoza (15) throws a pass during the first quarter against the Penn State Nittany Lions at Beaver Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O’Haren-Imagn Images
What are the chances the Cardinals could land Fernando Mendoza or Dante Moore?
That’s where two-star college QBs enter the conversation with Indiana University’s Fernando Mendoza and the University of Oregon’s Dante Moore. Mendoza, the 2025 Heisman Trophy winner, is the top QB prospect with his elite timing, accuracy, and command. Moore brings highlight talent with massive arm strength and off-platform creativity. Now the question is, if the Cardinals were to pivot away from Kyler Murray, would it be possible for one of them to fall in the draft?
Dec 20, 2025; Eugene, OR, USA; Oregon Ducks quarterback Moore (5) looks on before the game against the James Madison Dukes at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images
Thanks to the Patriots win last night, the Titans strength of schedule was adjusted and the Cardinals now hold the 5th pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. #movinuplikegeorgeandweezie pic.twitter.com/AonbB2t0Z0
— Tim Ring (@timringTV) December 22, 2025
That is where the Cardinals’ draft position complicates everything. With quarterback-needy teams like the Jets, Raiders, and Browns ahead, Arizona needs chaos or creativity. One scenario quietly gaining traction is possibly trading Murray to a desperate team looking to stabilize its offense, then using that return to move up. For a contender missing quarterback certainty, Murray’s contract becomes palatable when weighed against the uncertainty at the position. Arizona doesn’t have to choose today, though it must prepare for tomorrow.
FanDuel Sportsbook suggests Cardinals trade Kyler Murray for Tua Tagovailoa in shocking QB swap
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Reporter Benjamin Bliklen covers the Arizona Diamondbacks, Arizona Cardinals, and Phoenix Suns for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @BenBliklen
