Next team for Kyler Murray: MLB? A’s leave door open after Cardinals release
Kyler Murray was once the top pick in the NFL Draft, but before that, he was a top 10 pick in the MLB Draft too. Could he go back to that path now?
The next chapter of Kyler Murray’s career could still be written in the NFL. But after the quarterback’s release from the Arizona Cardinals, an old possibility has resurfaced: a return to baseball.
It might sound far-fetched, but the Oakland Athletics say the door remains open.
Could Kyler Murray switch to baseball?
Murray, who was selected by the A’s with the No. 9 pick in the 2018 MLB Draft, famously chose football over baseball in 2019. After winning the Heisman Trophy at University of Oklahoma, he declared for the NFL Draft and was taken first overall by Arizona.
Seven years later, Murray is suddenly an NFL free agent after the Cardinals moved on from their former franchise quarterback. The news prompted speculation about whether the multi-sport star could revisit the baseball career he once walked away from.
And according to Athletics general manager David Forst, the organization would at least entertain that conversation.
“Kyler is an elite NFL quarterback and I’m sure there are plenty of opportunities for him to continue his football career,” Forst told MLB.com. “That said, he and his baseball representatives know that we’re always open to him exploring a return to baseball with the A’s if that time ever comes.”
Why the A’s still hold Murray’s rights
When Murray chose football, the situation left a unique arrangement in place.
He had already signed with the Athletics and received a $4.66 million signing bonus, most of which he later forfeited after committing to football. In exchange, the A’s retained his MLB rights, meaning they would be the team he’d report to if he ever decided to pursue baseball professionally.
At the time, Murray was viewed as one of the most intriguing athletes in the draft. Former A’s executive Billy Beane described him as “one of the most dynamic athletes” the franchise had selected.
Murray was widely considered a five-tool outfield prospect during his time at Oklahoma, where he hit .296 with 10 home runs and 47 RBIs in his final college season.
Why a baseball comeback would be difficult
Despite the renewed attention, a switch to baseball remains extremely unlikely. At 28 years old, Murray has spent the last seven seasons focused exclusively on football. Transitioning to professional baseball after such a long gap, and starting in the minor leagues, would be a massive undertaking.
Meanwhile, the quarterback market in the NFL virtually guarantees he’ll receive interest from teams seeking a veteran starter or bridge option. For that reason, Murray’s most realistic next step is still another opportunity under center.
But if his football journey ever slows down, the Athletics have made it clear they haven’t forgotten about the star athlete who once chose the gridiron over the diamond. And if he ever wants to revisit that decision, they’ll be ready.
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