Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray will miss his fourth consecutive game as he continues to recover from a foot sprain suffered in Week 5. Head coach Jonathan Gannon confirmed that Murray will not play in Monday Night Football against the Dallas Cowboys, with veteran Jacoby Brissett set to start again.
Murray participated in pre-game warmups but remains limited in practice sessions. Despite speculation about a potential benching, NFL Insider Tom Pelissero clarified the decision is “1,000% about health,” not performance.
Kyler Murray’s Injury and Recovery Update
Who: Kyler Murray, Arizona Cardinals quarterback
What: Out with a foot sprain
When: Missed since Week 5, sidelined for fourth straight game
Where: Cardinals vs. Cowboys, Monday Night Football
Why: Ongoing recovery from limited mobility
How: Medical evaluation and team decision
Murray suffered the injury in Week 5 and has yet to suit up since. While not deemed severe, the sprain has affected his lateral movement and agility, crucial elements of his dual-threat playing style.
Reports indicate that Murray is comfortable throwing from the pocket but continues to experience limited mobility when running or changing direction. Team officials maintain that the focus remains on full recovery before he returns to the field.
Coach and Analyst Reactions
Head coach Jonathan Gannon acknowledged steady progress but confirmed Murray is not game-ready yet.
“He’s getting better,” Gannon said. “He’s had some more work this week, but he’s just not ready to go yet. I know he wants to be out there and he’s doing everything he can. It’s just not quite there yet.”
NFL Insider Tom Pelissero echoed that assessment, noting:
“Kyler, when he’s in the pocket, looks like himself. But when he’s running, when he’s making other movements, that’s where it’s not entirely normal just yet.”
Impact on Cardinals’ Offense
Veteran quarterback Jacoby Brissett will start for the fourth straight week. Under Brissett, the Cardinals have shown improved offensive stability, but the team remains 2-7 this season.
While Brissett’s presence has steadied the offense, the Cardinals’ long-term hopes still rest on Murray’s full recovery and return. His mobility and playmaking ability remain vital to the team’s offensive identity, especially against NFC West rivals.
What’s Next for Kyler Murray
According to Pelissero, Murray could potentially return in Week 10 against the Seattle Seahawks, provided his mobility improves. The Cardinals are prioritizing his long-term health over short-term results, ensuring he can execute the full playbook upon return.
With a challenging schedule ahead, Arizona is unlikely to rush him back. The team’s focus remains on recovery and preserving Murray’s long-term future as the franchise quarterback.
Sources
ESPN Sports
NFL Network (Tom Pelissero)
Arizona Cardinals Official Site
247Sports
