Quarterback Kyler Murray is facing a setback as he continues to recover from an ACL tear, with reports indicating that he won’t be able to start the upcoming 2023 season. The decision has been made that Murray will begin the season on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list, meaning he will have to sit out a minimum of the first four games.
Kyler Murray’s Season Kickoff in Doubt
According to Gannon, an official, there are two potential lists Murray could have been placed on: the PUP list or the Injured Reserve (IR) list. However, to be eligible to return after four games on IR, Murray would have had to be initially included in the 53-man roster, making it more convenient for the Cardinals to opt for the PUP list.
Murray’s earliest possible return to practice would be on October 2nd, shortly after the Cardinals’ fourth game against the 49ers. There’s flexibility for him to remain on the PUP list for a longer duration if necessary. Murray expressed his cautious approach to returning, highlighting that he wouldn’t want to jeopardize the team or his own recovery.
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Comparing Murray’s recovery to that of tight end Zach Ertz, who suffered a similar ACL injury, Gannon emphasized the significance of both football-related and rehab-related plans, with health taking precedence.
The soonest Murray could see action in a game is on October 8th, when the Cardinals face the Bengals. If he’s not fully recovered by that point, he can continue to remain on the sidelines beyond the initial four games.
In addition, the Cardinals made the decision to release veteran quarterback Colt McCoy, who was initially expected to start in Week 1. This move sheds light on the acquisition of Joshua Dobbs, given the uncertainty surrounding Murray’s health and McCoy’s departure.
Gannon also mentioned that rookie cornerback Garrett Williams, who is also recovering from an ACL injury, will start the season on the Non-Football Injury list. This list, like the PUP list, requires players to miss at least four games before they can return.