GLENDALE – The introduction of new Arizona Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur had solidify the notion that quarterback Kyler Murray will not be on the roster next season. LaFleur rarely mentioned the two-time Pro Bowler at his introductory press conference and when asked on Arizona Sports about who’ll be the starter in 2026, he would dodge the questions.
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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
Arizona likely let their head coach know its intention to trade Murray this offseason, leading him to be secretive about his feelings. In his tenure with the franchise, Murray has endured plenty of scrutiny from inside and outside the organization for his leadership. The 28-year-old has had the most noise against him of any Cardinals player in the past few decades.
However, one teammate stood by his quarterback in tight end Trey McBride. National Sports Talk Show Host Zach Gelb sat down with the All-Pro and asked about Murray’s leadership skills and their relationship.
Jan 4, 2026; Inglewood, California, USA; Arizona Cardinals tight end Trey McBride (85) runs after the catch against the Los Angeles Rams during the first half at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
McBride defends Murray:
The pair have played together for four seasons and have grown their connection as the years progress. McBride came in as a second-round pick, and after a quiet rookie season, show his potential in Year 2. His 81 catches was a massive milestone in McBride’s sophomore season, and Murray played a massive part of that growth. The 2024 season was even better with 111 receptions, 1,146 receiving yards and two touchdowns.
Dec 28, 2024; Inglewood, California, USA; Arizona Cardinals tight end Trey McBride (85) celebrates with quarterback Kyler Murray (1) after catching a 1-yard touchdown pass against the Los Angeles Rams in the second half at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
McBride had become Murray’s top target. Their chemistry led the team to going 8-9 two seasons ago. In the past four years, the team has had a win total of four, four, eight and three, with the outliner being the two’s production. In 2025, Murray’s injury sidelined him, but McBride’s numbers didn’t take a hit and actually improved.
His 126 catches for 1,239 yards and 11 touchdowns led all tight ends last season. McBride becoming an All-Pro without Murray led many to their preconceived notion that the seven-year Cardinals quarterback is the problem. Arizona did go 1-11 without Murray, but the franchise has made up its mine. Unless it listens to their superstar tight end, the roster will have a new quarterback under center in 2026.
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
