Imagine a world where a Heisman Trophy winner and NFL star decides to swap cleats for spikes mid-career. Sounds crazy, right? But here's where it gets controversial... The Oakland Athletics, the baseball team that drafted Kyler Murray in 2018, haven't ruled out a reunion with the quarterback, even though he chose the NFL over MLB five years ago. And this is the part most people miss... Despite Murray's success in football, the A's still hold his baseball rights and are open to discussing a return to the diamond. Is this a realistic option for the 28-year-old free agent, or just a nostalgic fantasy? Let's dive in.
Kyler Murray, the dynamic athlete who once dazzled at the University of Oklahoma, was selected by the Athletics with the 9th overall pick in the 2018 MLB draft. The team saw his potential as a five-tool outfielder and offered him a contract with a $4.66 million signing bonus. However, Murray's heart was torn between two sports. In December 2018, he told reporters, 'I would love to play both professionally. I’ve always been a guy of many options, and I’m trying to keep them open as long as possible.' Yet, by February 2019, he decided to pursue football full-time, returning most of the bonus and joining the Arizona Cardinals as the NFL's No. 1 draft pick.
Fast forward to March 2026, and Murray's NFL journey with the Cardinals has come to an end. The team announced his release, making him one of the most sought-after free agents in the league. Teams like the Vikings, Dolphins, Jets, and Falcons are expected to vie for his services. But what if Murray, now 28, decides to revisit his baseball roots? A's general manager David Forst recently told MLB.com, 'Kyler is an elite NFL quarterback, but he and his representatives know we’re always open to him exploring a return to baseball with the A's if that time ever comes.'
Here’s the bold question: Is a return to baseball even feasible for Murray? At 28, he’s not exactly a rookie, and transitioning back to a sport he hasn’t played professionally would be an unprecedented challenge. Yet, Forst’s comments suggest the A’s aren’t just daydreaming—they’re keeping the door cracked. Former A's executive vice president Billy Beane, the 'Moneyball' legend, once called Murray 'one of the most dynamic athletes we’ve selected since I’ve been here.' Could this be more than just a sentimental gesture?
Murray’s final baseball season at Oklahoma was impressive, batting .296 with 10 home runs and 47 RBIs in 51 games. His athleticism and skill set are undeniable, but the gap in his baseball career raises doubts. Meanwhile, his NFL career has been stellar, earning him a Heisman Trophy and a top draft pick status. Would he risk that legacy for a baseball comeback?
But here's the real kicker: What if Murray sees this as an opportunity to redefine athletic versatility? Athletes like Bo Jackson and Deion Sanders have successfully juggled multiple sports, but in today’s hyper-specialized world, such feats are rare. Could Murray be the exception? Or is this just a PR move by the A’s to stay relevant in the Murray narrative?
As we ponder these questions, one thing is clear: Kyler Murray’s story is far from over. Whether he stays in the NFL or shocks the world with a baseball return, his journey will continue to captivate fans. What do you think? Is a baseball comeback in the cards for Murray, or should he stick to football? Let us know in the comments—we’re eager to hear your take on this fascinating sports saga.
Mar 5, 2026
Connections: Sports Edition
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