Kyler Murray is in the mix to replace Josh Rosen at the Arizona Cardinals’ quarterback position, amid several rumors.
One year ago, Josh Rosen was the next big thing in the 2018 draft.
He got drafted during the first round coming out of UCLA after breaking the college’s record for single-season yards passing during his junior year, being dubbed the “Chosen One” and “Chosen Rosen.”
Let’s say his path in the NFL was written in stone when he started the 2018 season.
However, his rookie year in the league did not really reflect his high potential. In fact, he completed only 55.2 percent of his throws for 2,278 yards, 11 touchdowns and 14 interceptions along the way. Though he was not the only player to blame in the 3-13 season, he did not shine either and failed to appear as the franchise quarterback the team hoped for.
One of the most fascinating draft storylines last year is now just a side story to a newcomer in this year’s draft: Kyler Murray.
Kyler Murray is an atypical No. 1 overall choice. He wanted to play professional baseball just a few months ago; he’s shorter than the average quarterback; he played football in Oklahoma for just one year.
Still, few people would be surprised if the Heisman winner ends up being the top selection in the upcoming draft.
Kliff Kingsbury praised Murray at Texas Tech
Kliff Kingsbury, the newest head coach of the Arizona Cardinals, likes Kyler Murray, and he reportedly said Murray to Cardinals is nearly a done deal.
He’s had strong feelings about Murray for a while now.
“I’d take him with the first pick in the draft if I could,” Kingsbury said back in October when he was still the coach at Texas Tech. “I know he’s signed up to play baseball, but he’s a dominant football player. I would take him with the first pick.”
Last week, Steve Keim, the Cardinals general manager, was asked whether Josh Rosen should be viewed as the team’s starter.
“He is, right now,” Keim told reporters, clearly not committing to the sophomore quarterback beyond the draft.
Arizona now owns the No. 1 selection, and Murray is definitely a big name to bring in if they choose to part ways with Rosen.
What’s the real value of Josh Rosen after this disastrous season?
What would be the value of Rosen?
How many teams would need Rosen as a quarterback?
Perhaps those who need a starter next year, such as the Redskins or Dolphins. But what about the Patriots, who need veteran Tom Brady’s back-up?
It will all depend on the price asked by Arizona. Rosen struggled in 2018 with the Cardinals, but he is just 22 years old. Rosen is also affordable and has three years left of a guaranteed $17.5 million, four-year contract he signed with Arizona last year.
He has real value.
Rosen’s supporting cast last year was awful, so the Cardinals need to reinforce the offense and defense this offseason; spending a Top 10 pick on a quarterback again is not ideal. However, if they are not convinced Rosen can become their franchise quarterback, it is best to change route immediately and find a better solution for the main position on the field, especially if they own the top pick.
So, the buzz is not over yet, especially after Keim’s comments at the Combine.
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