NFL Legend Sends Clear Message for Kyler Murray on Vikings Season
The Minnesota Vikings are hoping they’ll solve their quarterback issue in the upcoming season, after signing free agent Kyler Murray to a one-year deal in March.
Throughout the past few seasons, it’s been a major turn of events for the position. The team went from veteran Sam Darnold guiding them into the postseason two years ago to J.J. McCarthy taking over as QB1 after Darnold left.
Unfortunately, McCarthy struggled, prompting speculation that the team would need to upgrade their QB, which they may or may not have done with Murray.
At the very least, they’ve put some heat on McCarthy to show he deserves the starting role over Murray, who previously excelled with the Arizona Cardinals.
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Pro Football Hall of Famer Warren Moon recently shared his honest opinion of Murray, while on “Up and Adams with Kay Adams,” agreeing with Adams that Murray is the “most frustrating quarterback” in the league.
“You just never know what you’re gonna get from that guy,” Moon said. “He is so dynamic. He makes so many plays that you go, ‘Wow,’ and then all of a sudden he goes through phases where he doesn’t even look like the same guy.”
Moon said he hoped that Murray would be “re-motivated to show what he can do” in this situation, with a great new organization, coaching staff, and “weapons” to throw to. Those weapons include multi-time Pro Bowler Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison.
In addition, the Vikings added Jauan Jenningers during the offseason to further upgrade their receiving corps as they look to improve upon last season’s poor result.
“It’s all in his possession if he wants it, but J.J. McCarthy is right there, too. I don’t think he’s gonna make it easy,” Moon told Adams.
“He’s showing you why he’s a former number one pick,” the NFL legend said, adding, “He hasn’t played up to those expectations each and every year.”
Moon mentioned that Murray had injury setbacks earlier in his career and didn’t have an ideal cast around him when playing for the Arizona Cardinals. That should change with Minnesota.
“I don’t think he has any excuses with this Minnesota team. This team is ready to go,” he said.
The Cardinals made Murray their franchise QB back in 2019, selecting the Heisman winner first overall. He went on to achieve just one winning season during his seven seasons in 2021, which was the only postseason appearance by Murray and the Cardinals during his time.
He was the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year and is a two-time Pro Bowler, suggesting the talent is definitely there. Now he needs to show it with his new squad. Between his 2022 and 2025 seasons, Murray played in only 17 games, with his other seasons diminished by injuries.
His situation with Minnesota is certainly much better than what he previously had if he can take advantage of it and show why he was a No. 1 pick. Many believe this Vikings team has what it takes to make noise in the NFC and qualify for the postseason. Others are still hesitant to give them that sort of praise early.
They have one of the toughest divisions in the NFL, with Detroit, Chicago, and Green Bay. In addition, Minnesota ranked No. 11 on the toughest-schedule ranking, indicating they could be in for a long season if Murray or McCarthy don’t become the QB1 they were hoping for.
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This story was originally published May 18, 2026 at 8:18 PM.