Kyler Murray Injury Update: Cardinals Rule Out QB for Week 9 vs Cowboys

Kyler Murray will not play in Week 9 as the Arizona Cardinals face the Dallas Cowboys on Monday Night Football. Head coach Jonathan Gannon confirmed that veteran Jacoby Brissett will start while Murray continues to recover from a lingering foot injury.

This decision comes after days of cautious optimism surrounding Murray’s possible return. The star quarterback had been listed as limited in practice for much of the week, but his progress wasn’t enough to clear him for game action.

Kyler Murray’s Week 9 Status Confirmed

According to NFL insider Adam Schefter, Murray was officially ruled out for the Cardinals’ primetime matchup. “Cardinals QB Jacoby Brissett will start Monday night vs. the Cowboys,” Schefter wrote on Saturday. “Kyler Murray is making progress from his foot sprain, and could have a role Monday night, but Brissett will start.”

The update follows Murray’s limited participation in both Thursday and Friday practices. While Arizona has not placed him on injured reserve, the team is proceeding with caution after he re-aggravated the injury during the Week 6 loss to the Tennessee Titans.

Before the bye week, Murray missed two consecutive practices and sat out the Week 7 matchup against the Indianapolis Colts. Gannon had stated the team was handling his situation “day by day,” emphasizing that the priority was to have him “fully healthy to play.”

With Brissett getting the majority of snaps during team drills, it became clear late in the week that the Cardinals were preparing for a contingency plan at quarterback. The veteran passer has been serviceable in relief duty, managing the offense effectively while limiting turnovers.

How the Cardinals’ Offense Looks Without Murray

Brissett’s presence offers a steadier pocket option but lacks the explosive mobility that defines Murray’s game. Through four appearances this season, Brissett has completed 64.2% of his passes for 599 yards, four touchdowns, and one interception. His 6.8 net yards per attempt (nYPA) slightly edges out Murray’s 5.3, reflecting a more consistent passing rhythm.

However, Murray’s ability to extend plays remains unmatched. In five games, he’s thrown for 962 yards, six touchdowns, and three interceptions while rushing for 173 yards and one score. His dual-threat capability often forces defenses to adjust, opening opportunities for the Cardinals’ receivers downfield.

For Monday’s game, expect Arizona to lean on quick passes, screens, and short-yardage runs to keep Brissett comfortable against a Dallas defense that ranks among the top five in quarterback pressures. Wide receivers Michael Wilson and Greg Dortch are expected to see increased targets, while running back Trey Benson could feature prominently in the short passing game.

What Comes Next for Murray and Arizona

The Cardinals remain optimistic about Murray’s return in Week 10 if his recovery continues without setbacks. The team will continue to monitor his foot through light practices next week, aiming for a full-speed return soon.

While Brissett will handle Monday’s start, Gannon hinted that Murray “could have a role,” suggesting limited participation or emergency use if the situation demands. Still, the organization is focused on long-term health rather than short-term risks.

With the Cardinals sitting at 3–5, getting Kyler Murray back healthy remains critical to their playoff hopes. His return could come as soon as next week, but for now, the offense belongs to Jacoby Brissett.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Is Kyler Murray playing in Week 9?

No. The Cardinals have ruled Kyler Murray out for Week 9 against the Cowboys. Jacoby Brissett will start.

Q2: What injury is Kyler Murray dealing with?

Murray is recovering from a foot sprain sustained during the Week 6 loss to the Titans.

Q3: When could Kyler Murray return?

The Cardinals hope Murray can return in Week 10 if he clears all medical benchmarks and resumes full practice participation.

Q4: Who is starting for the Cardinals in Week 9?

Jacoby Brissett will start at quarterback for the Arizona Cardinals against the Dallas Cowboys.

Q5: How has Jacoby Brissett performed this season?

Brissett has thrown four touchdowns to one interception in four appearances, maintaining steady efficiency as a fill-in starter.