If you’ve been following the NFL lately, Kyler Murray’s name probably pops up a lot. He’s the kind of player who can throw a laser and sprint past defenders in the same play. That mix of arm talent and speed makes him one of the most exciting QBs to watch.
Born in 1997 in Bedford, Texas, Kyler grew up playing both football and baseball. He was a top baseball prospect, but he chose the gridiron because he loved the fast‑pace of the game. After high school, he walked into the University of Oklahoma, where he split time with Jalen Hurts before transferring to the University of Oklahoma. Wait, that’s a slip—he actually transferred to the University of Oklahoma, then to the University of Oklahoma? Let’s set it straight: he transferred to the University of Oklahoma, then led the Sooners to the College Football Playoff in his sophomore year.
His college stats were eye‑catching: in 2018 he threw for 4,361 yards, 42 touchdowns, and only 7 interceptions. He also rushed for 1,001 yards and 12 scores. Those numbers earned him the Heisman Trophy and made him the top pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, where the Arizona Cardinals snapped him up with the first overall selection.
Kyler’s college run was a rollercoaster of hype and performance. He was a dual‑sport athlete, drafted by MLB’s Oakland Athletics in the 2020 draft, but he turned his focus fully to football. The hype around him during the draft was massive—analysts debated whether his size (5’10”) would limit him, but his quickness and arm strength silenced most critics.
In Arizona, he stepped into a team that needed a spark. His rookie season (2019) saw him throw for 3,722 yards, 20 touchdowns, and 13 picks, while also adding 544 rushing yards and 4 rushing touchdowns. He earned the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award, proving his transition from college to the pros was smoother than many expected.
What makes Kyler stand out? It’s his ability to make plays on the run. He loves to extend the pocket, dropping back just enough to buy time, then using his speed to chase down throws. Defenses hate that because they can’t pin him down with a traditional pass rush. He’s also grown as a pocket passer. In the 2022 season, he posted a 70.4 passer rating, threw for 3,797 yards, 28 touchdowns, and just 6 interceptions. Those numbers show his decision‑making is improving, even as he still relies on his legs for big gains.
Injuries have been a part of his story too. A shoulder issue in 2021 sidelined him for a few weeks, and a foot injury in 2023 raised concerns. Yet each time he’s come back with a quick adjustment in his throwing mechanics, proving his work ethic is relentless.Off the field, Kyler’s a popular figure on social media, often sharing training clips, family moments, and charity work. He’s also a brand ambassador for several sports apparel companies, which helps keep his name in the headlines even when he’s not on the field.
Looking ahead, the Cardinals are building around him with a stronger offensive line and more play‑action weapons. If they can keep him healthy, Kyler Murray could be the centerpiece of a high‑scoring offense for years to come.
So whether you’re a die‑hard Cardinals fan or just love watching a quarterback who can make something out of nothing, Kyler Murray is a name worth remembering. Keep an eye on his stats, his highlights, and the way he reshapes the quarterback role with every snap.
The Saints dropped their season opener 20-13 to the Cardinals after a frantic final drive ended at the Arizona 18. Spencer Rattler threw for 214 yards with no picks, Alvin Kamara scored on an 18-yard run, and Blake Grupe’s late field goal set up one last chance. Kyler Murray fired two TDs, including one to rookie Marvin Harrison Jr. Penalties undercut the Saints in a penalty-prone debut.