Cardinals Keep Quarterback Decision Under Wraps Ahead of Week 9 Clash with Cowboys

The Arizona Cardinals are playing their cards close to the vest heading into Week 9, refusing to confirm who will start at quarterback against the Dallas Cowboys. While expectations across the league suggest Kyler Murray will return from a two-game absence, head coach Jonathan Gannon and the organization continue to keep details under wraps.

Murray last played on October 5, when he sustained a foot injury during a loss to the Tennessee Titans. Since then, the 27-year-old quarterback has been recovering and gradually ramping up activity, but the team has remained deliberately cautious in its updates. According to ESPN’s Josh Weinfuss, Gannon acknowledged that the team is preparing for Murray to play, though he stopped short of confirming anything definitive.

Adding to the uncertainty, Murray was originally scheduled to speak with reporters after Thursday’s practice. However, the team changed those plans at the last moment, announcing instead that a “quarterback” would be made available later in the week, per Cardinals reporter Darren Urban.

This strategic ambiguity mirrors how the Baltimore Ravens handled Lamar Jackson’s injury situation earlier this season — preparing him as if he would start, only to announce his absence just before game day. The Cardinals, who are coming off a bye, have until Monday to make an official decision on their starter.

1. Murray’s Imminent Return to a Struggling Team

Assuming Murray does return, he’ll inherit a team desperately searching for answers after a five-game losing streak. Arizona hasn’t won since Week 2, when it edged out the Carolina Panthers 27–22, and has since fallen to the bottom of the NFC West. The Cardinals’ offensive rhythm has faltered without Murray’s mobility and playmaking. During his absence, veteran backup Jacoby Brissett has filled in capably, providing stability and poise despite the team’s losses. His two starts — both close defeats to the Indianapolis Colts and Green Bay Packers — have kept Arizona competitive, even if the results haven’t gone their way. Under Brissett, the Cardinals have averaged more passing yards per game (299.5) than they did with Murray this season. He’s also recorded the team’s two highest single-game yardage totals, earning praise from both teammates and analysts for his command of the offense. Still, Gannon made it clear earlier this week that the quarterback job remains Murray’s as soon as he’s cleared to play. “Kyler’s our starter,” he said firmly. “When he’s ready, he’s in there.”

2. Evaluating the Quarterback Options

The Cardinals’ quarterback dilemma has sparked discussion about whether it’s wise to rush Murray back into action. The franchise star has faced a series of injuries over the past two seasons, including a torn ACL that sidelined him for much of 2024. Now, after another setback, the team must weigh the long-term risks of accelerating his return against the immediate need for a spark. Brissett’s steady performance has given Arizona flexibility, and his leadership has drawn respect within the locker room. While he may not possess Murray’s explosiveness, his ability to read defenses and limit mistakes has helped keep games close. If the Cardinals decide to err on the side of caution, Brissett remains a trusted option. However, Murray’s ceiling — as a dual-threat quarterback capable of transforming a game with his arm and legs — remains unmatched. His return could provide the energy boost the Cardinals need to regain confidence and potentially save a season that has spiraled early. The upcoming game against Dallas, one of the NFC’s stronger defensive teams, represents both a challenge and an opportunity. If Murray does start, all eyes will be on how well he moves and whether he can quickly find rhythm after weeks on the sideline.

3. What’s Next for Arizona

Regardless of who starts in Week 9, the Cardinals’ focus will be on ending their losing streak and re-establishing consistency. The bye week has given players time to recover and coaches an opportunity to reassess strategy — particularly on offense, where execution has fluctuated. Arizona’s coaching staff has expressed confidence in both quarterbacks, though the long-term vision clearly revolves around Murray. His chemistry with wide receivers Marvin Harrison Jr. and Michael Wilson remains vital to any chance at a midseason turnaround. Meanwhile, the defense, led by Budda Baker and Zaven Collins, will need to hold firm against a Dallas offense that ranks among the league’s most efficient in scoring and passing. For Arizona, staying competitive against an opponent of that caliber could be a statement, regardless of the outcome. As Monday approaches, the quarterback mystery will soon be solved. But for now, the Cardinals are content to keep their plans hidden — a move that adds intrigue to a pivotal matchup.