In a procedural move that confirms the team’s immediate plans, the Cardinals are placing QB Kyler Murray on the reserve/injured list to begin the 2023 NFL season. This decision means the star quarterback will miss at least the first four regular season games as he continues to recover from a torn ACL suffered last December.
The move from the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list to short-term IR solidifies the timeline for Murray’s return. For fans hoping to see his dynamic playmaking in September, the wait will now extend into October at the earliest.
This cautious approach is a clear signal from new General Manager Monti Ossenfort and Head Coach Jonathan Gannon. The organization is prioritizing the long-term health of its franchise quarterback—and the massive $230.5 million contract he signed last year—over rushing him back into a season with tempered expectations.
Impact of Murray’s Move to Injured Reserve
With Kyler Murray sidelined, the Cardinals’ quarterback room will have a new look for Week 1. The starting job is expected to be a competition between two players:
- Joshua Dobbs: A veteran quarterback acquired via trade from the Cleveland Browns just last week.
- Clayton Tune: A fifth-round rookie who showed promising signs during the preseason.
The acquisition of Dobbs was a strong indicator that the team was preparing for Murray’s absence. While both Dobbs and Tune will manage the offense, neither possesses the game-breaking talent of a healthy Murray, signaling a challenging start for a Cardinals team in a deep rebuilding phase.
A Strategic Rebuild: The Cardinals’ Long-Term Outlook
While no team admits to “tanking,” the Cardinals’ offseason actions point toward a strategic rebuild. By placing Murray on IR, the team not only protects its most significant investment but also creates a low-pressure environment for the new coaching staff to install their systems and evaluate young talent.
Many analysts believe Arizona is positioning itself for a high pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, which is expected to feature a strong quarterback class. This period without Murray allows the front office to get a clear assessment of the entire roster without the pressure to win immediately.
When Can Kyler Murray Return From IR?
The earliest Murray can be activated from the injured reserve list is ahead of the Cardinals’ Week 5 matchup at home against the Cincinnati Bengals. Until then, Arizona will navigate the start of its season focused more on building a foundation for the future than on the 2023 scoreboard. The franchise is officially in a patient holding pattern, awaiting the return of its star.
