5 Things to Know About Quarterback Kyler Murray

Murray played just five games last season, completing 110 of 161 passes for 962 yards with six touchdowns and three interceptions for a passer rating of 88.6. He led the Cardinals in rushing through the first five weeks, recording 173 yards on the ground.

Vikings Head Coach Kevin O’Connell and Executive Vice President of Football Operations Rob Brzezinski, who is leading Minnesota’s coaching staff and personnel department through the 2026 offseason after Kwesi Adofo-Mensah was relieved of his GM duties, have emphasized adding depth and competition to the Vikings QB room that also includes 2024 first-round draft pick J.J. McCarthy.

Here are five additional things to know about Murray:

Murray started his collegiate career at Texas A&M (2015, where he teamed with Vikings assistant quarterbacks coach/passing game specialist Jordan Traylor) but transferred after one season to Oklahoma.

After sitting out the 2016 season due to NCAA regulations, Murray backed up QB Baker Mayfield in 2017 and played a handful of times in relief situations. Murray took over the starting role in 2018 when Mayfield departed for the NFL Draft. He totaled 4,361 passing yards and an impressive 42 touchdowns to just seven interceptions, helping the Sooners to a Big 12 title and appearance in the College Football Playoffs.

Murray received the Heisman Trophy as college football’s top player following his sole starting season.

He opted to forgo his senior season and declared for the 2019 NFL Draft.

Murray isn’t only a football standout.

In fact, he is the only player to be drafted in the top 10 by both the NFL and MLB.

Murray shined on the baseball diamond at Allen High School (Texas), playing shortstop and second base. He became the first player to ever be selected for both the Under Armour All-America Baseball Game and the Under Armour All-America Football Game.

Murray was considered one of the top prospects for the 2015 MLB Draft but opted to play at the college level. After transferring from Texas A&M, he played for the Sooners baseball team in 2017 and 2018.

The Oakland A’s (who have since relocated to West Sacramento and are on their way to Las Vegas) drafted Murray No. 9 overall in the 2018 MLB Draft, though it was known Murray intended to pursue a career in football.

The A’s officially retain Murray’s rights, should he ever opt for a return to baseball.