Arizona Cardinals Cause Stir Over Kyler Murray’s ‘Independent Study’ Clause In $230 Million Contract

Kyler Murray signed an extension with the Arizona Cardinals worth nearly a quarter billion dollars. This made him the second-highest paid quarterback in the NFL. His contract had an addendum that mandated him at least four hours of “independent study” during game weeks. After a massive backlash, that clause is no more.

The Cardinals announced Thursday that they’ve removed the “independent study” mandate from Murray’s $230.5 million contract. The team said in a statement the addendum caused too much distraction for the QB and them.

After seeing the distraction it created, we removed the addendum from the contract. It was clearly perceived in ways that were never intended. Our confidence in Kyler Murray is as high as it’s ever been and nothing demonstrates our belief in his ability to lead this team more than the commitment reflected in his contract.

Earlier on Thursday, Murray held an impromptu media conference to address the backlash. He stated that there had been no “shortcuts” to success in his football career, regardless of the conditions in his new deal.

Kyler’s deal is worth $230.5 million. $160 million of it will be guaranteed money. Kyler Murray’s new $46.1 million yearly pay puts him second in the NFL behind Aaron Rodgers.

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