Kyler Murray has taken the NFL by storm since being drafted first overall by the Arizona Cardinals in 2019. Known for his electrifying play style, dual-threat capabilities, and remarkable achievements, Murray has quickly become one of the most exciting quarterbacks in the league. Fans and analysts alike are captivated by his talent, leading to many questions about this dynamic player. One common question that often arises is about his physical stature, specifically: How Tall Is Kyler Murray?
While his on-field performance speaks volumes, his height is a frequent point of discussion, especially in a league where quarterbacks are often expected to have towering frames. Let’s delve into the details of Kyler Murray’s height and explore how it plays into his career narrative.
Kyler Murray’s Officially Listed Height
According to official NFL listings and the Arizona Cardinals roster, Kyler Murray’s height is 5 feet 10 inches (5’10”). This measurement is consistently reported across various sports news outlets and databases. While height in the NFL, particularly for quarterbacks, is often scrutinized, Murray has proven that talent and skill can transcend traditional physical expectations.
Image alt: Kyler Murray poses in his Arizona Cardinals jersey at the NFL Draft, highlighting his athletic build and stature.
Is Kyler Murray Short for an NFL Quarterback?
In the context of the NFL, and specifically for the quarterback position, 5’10” is generally considered to be on the shorter side. The average height of an NFL quarterback is closer to 6 feet 2 inches to 6 feet 3 inches. Historically, the prototype for an NFL quarterback has often been a taller player, believed to offer advantages in terms of vision over the offensive and defensive lines, as well as in delivering passes with power and trajectory.
However, the game of football is evolving, and players like Kyler Murray are redefining what it means to be a successful NFL quarterback. While he may not possess the towering height of some of his counterparts, Murray compensates with exceptional athleticism, agility, and a strong arm.
How Kyler Murray’s Height Impacts His Play
Despite being shorter than the average NFL quarterback, Kyler Murray has demonstrated that height is far from the only determinant of success at the position. In fact, his stature might even contribute to some of his strengths:
- Agility and Mobility: Shorter players often have a lower center of gravity, which can enhance agility and quickness. Murray’s exceptional mobility is a hallmark of his game. He is incredibly elusive in the pocket, capable of evading pass rushers and extending plays with his legs. This agility allows him to create throwing lanes and make plays that taller, less mobile quarterbacks might not be able to.
- Pocket Presence: While vision over the line is often cited as an advantage for taller quarterbacks, shorter quarterbacks like Murray often develop exceptional pocket presence. They learn to navigate tight spaces, use subtle movements to find throwing windows, and release the ball quickly. Murray’s ability to sense pressure and maneuver within the pocket is a key aspect of his success.
- Release Quickness: Often, quarterbacks with slightly smaller frames are known for having quicker releases. This is vital in the NFL where defensive pressure is constant and windows to throw are often fleeting. Murray’s quick release allows him to get the ball out before defenses can close in, mitigating any potential disadvantage from his height.
Image alt: Action shot of Kyler Murray scrambling out of the pocket, showcasing his agility and speed as a mobile quarterback.
Kyler Murray’s Career Highlights and Achievements
Kyler Murray’s career is packed with accolades and impressive statistics, proving that height is no barrier to achieving greatness in the NFL. Here are some key highlights:
- NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year (2019): Immediately upon entering the league, Murray made a significant impact, earning the Offensive Rookie of the Year award. This is a testament to his immediate talent and adaptability to the NFL level.
- Two-Time Pro Bowl Selection (2020-2021): Murray was named to the Pro Bowl in his second and third seasons, solidifying his status as one of the top quarterbacks in the NFC.
- Team Captain: Since 2020, Murray has been named team captain for the Arizona Cardinals, highlighting his leadership qualities and the respect he commands within the team.
- Contract Extension: In 2022, the Cardinals demonstrated their faith in Murray’s future by signing him to a long-term contract extension, keeping him with the team through 2028.
- Statistical Milestones: Murray has consistently put up impressive numbers. In his first five seasons (2019-2023), he has:
- Completed 1,492 of 2,239 passes (66.6%) for 15,647 yards and 94 touchdowns.
- Rushed for 2,448 yards and 26 touchdowns on 425 carries (5.8 avg.).
- Historical Comparisons: Murray is in elite company when you look at historical statistics. He is one of only four players in NFL history (along with Josh Allen, Russell Wilson, and Cam Newton) to achieve 15,000+ passing yards and 2,000+ rushing yards in their first five seasons.
- Franchise Records: Murray has already broken numerous Arizona Cardinals franchise records, including single-season completion percentage and career rushing touchdowns by a quarterback.
- Comeback Wins and Game-Winning Drives: Murray has demonstrated his ability to perform under pressure, leading the Cardinals to notable comeback victories, including a historic win against the Las Vegas Raiders in 2022 and a comeback against the Philadelphia Eagles in 2023.
These achievements underscore that Kyler Murray’s talent and impact on the game far outweigh any perceived limitations due to his height.
Kyler Murray’s Background and Draft Story
Kyler Murray’s journey to the NFL is as unique as his playing style. Before focusing solely on football, Murray was a highly touted baseball prospect as well.
- Multi-Sport Athlete: Murray was drafted by the Oakland A’s in the first round of the 2018 MLB draft. He had a difficult decision to make between pursuing a career in professional baseball or football. Ultimately, he chose football, much to the excitement of NFL fans.
- Heisman Trophy Winner: Prior to entering the NFL, Murray had a stellar college football career at the University of Oklahoma. In 2018, he won the Heisman Trophy, the most prestigious individual award in college football, showcasing his exceptional talent and leadership.
- Number 1 Overall Draft Pick: The Arizona Cardinals selected Kyler Murray with the first overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, demonstrating their belief in his potential to be a franchise quarterback despite any concerns about his height.
- High School Success: Murray’s athletic prowess was evident long before college and the NFL. He won three consecutive 5A Texas state championships as a quarterback for Allen High School, boasting an incredible 43-0 record.
Image alt: Kyler Murray holding the Heisman Trophy after winning the prestigious award in 2018, highlighting his college football achievements.
Conclusion: Height is Just a Number for Kyler Murray
So, how tall is Kyler Murray? He stands at 5 feet 10 inches. While this is shorter than the stereotypical NFL quarterback, Kyler Murray has consistently defied expectations and proven that height is just one factor among many in determining success in professional football.
His exceptional athleticism, football IQ, arm talent, and competitive drive have allowed him to flourish in the NFL. He has achieved remarkable milestones, broken records, and established himself as a dynamic and exciting player to watch. Kyler Murray’s career serves as an inspiring example that skill, determination, and talent are ultimately more important than conforming to traditional physical molds. As he continues his career with the Arizona Cardinals, fans can expect to see even more impressive performances from this exceptional quarterback, regardless of his height.
