Kyler Murray Injury Update: When Will the Cardinals QB Return in 2025?

Kyler Murray’s injury has reshaped the Arizona Cardinals’ season. The quarterback is on injured reserve after a mid-foot injury suffered in Week 5. The team confirmed he will miss at least four games, making his return timeline a major storyline.

The Cardinals placed Murray on IR on Nov. 5. That move locked in a mandatory four-game absence. Head coach Jonathan Gannon emphasized that Murray is committed to recovery. The team wants him healthy before he returns to the field.

Latest Recovery Timeline for Kyler Murray

Murray cannot return before Week 14. That is the earliest game he is eligible for. The Cardinals face the Los Angeles Rams that week. His missed games include matchups against the 49ers, Jaguars, and Buccaneers.

Jonathan Gannon said the IR decision came from Murray, the medical staff, and his representatives. He added that Murray is “not healthy enough to play” and must focus on healing. This matches reporting from trusted outlets like Associated Press, which noted the team’s cautious approach to managing their franchise quarterback.

The injury affected the Cardinals’ offensive rhythm. Jacoby Brissett has taken over as the starter. His experience has helped the team stabilize drives. But the offense loses Murray’s signature mobility, improvisation, and deep-ball ability.

Pittsburgh product Kedon Slovis is now Brissett’s backup. Slovis made his NFL debut last week. He threw one pass that fell incomplete in a loss to the Seahawks. The depth chart is thin, increasing pressure on Brissett while Murray recovers.

Arizona must also weigh the long-term picture. Murray’s contract and future role remain key questions. His health will influence any offseason decisions. But for now, the organization’s priority is his full recovery and safe return.

How the Cardinals Are Responding Without Murray

The Cardinals’ offense looks different with Brissett. Drives are steadier but less explosive. The run game carries more of the workload. Receivers see fewer off-script plays that Murray often extended.

Defenses also play Arizona differently. Without Murray’s rushing threat, opponents can tighten coverage. That limits yardage after the catch and stresses the offensive line. The team will try to maximize efficiency until Murray returns.

Murray’s injury remains the defining factor of the Cardinals’ season. The Kyler Murray injury update will continue to shape expectations as Week 14 approaches. His recovery progress will determine how competitive Arizona can be down the stretch.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: When is Kyler Murray’s earliest return date?

Week 14 is the first week he can return. His IR placement requires a four-game absence. The Cardinals face the Rams that week.

Q2: Why was Kyler Murray placed on IR?

He suffered a mid-foot injury in Week 5. The team determined he was not healthy enough to play. IR gives him time to recover fully.

Q3: How is Jacoby Brissett performing?

Brissett provides steady veteran play. The offense is more structured but less explosive. He is keeping the team competitive.

Q4: How has Murray’s absence impacted the Cardinals?

The offense lost speed and creativity. Defenses are playing Arizona tighter. The team is relying more on balance and ball control.

Q5: Who is the backup behind Brissett?

Kedon Slovis is the QB2. He made his NFL debut last week. The depth chart remains thin until Murray returns.—