Heisman winner Kyler Murray picks NFL career over MLB

Ryan McFadden Sports Editor

Besides the Super Bowl and the madness that went around the NBA Trade Deadline, Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Kyler Murray’s decision to pick a pro football or baseball career has been one of the most talked about sports topics.

All the speculations came to an end on Feb. 10 when Murray announced that he will bypass baseball to focus on a career in the NFL.

“Football has been my love and passion my entire life,” Murray said on Twitter. “I was raised to play [quarterback], and I very much look forward to dedicating 100 percent of myself to being the best [quarterback] possible and winning NFL championships.”

Murray was selected by the Oakland Athletics with the ninth pick of the 2018 MLB Draft. Murray signed a contract with the A’s, which included a $4.66 million signing bonus and being able to play his junior season with the University of Oklahoma football team.

Murray went off during the college football season, as he became one of the top players in the nation. Murray, who led Oklahoma to a 12-1 and a trip to the College Football Playoffs, threw for 4,053 yards and 40 touchdowns, while rushing for 892 yards and reaching the end zone 11 times.

Murray quickly entered the discussions of being a first- round pick in the upcoming draft, which had Oakland concerned he will stick to football instead of reporting to spring training later this month.

Murray would go on to declare for the NFL Draft, but there was still uncertainty on what sport he would ultimately pick until now.

Murray, who is projected to be a Top 15 pick in the NFL Draft, will have to give Oakland $1.29 million of his $1.5 million signing bonus, according to ESPN’s Jeff Passan. Murray also has to forfeit the remaining $3.16 million that’s due in March.

Murray is giving up millions of dollars that the A’s were planning on giving, but it’s understandable why he did it.

If Murray stuck to playing baseball, he would get $5 million at the start, but that wouldn’t be the case for the rest of the way. Murray would spend two to three years in the minor leagues before making an appearance in the big leagues. Even when he makes it to the majors, Murray wouldn’t get big-time dollars until he plays seven seasons with the A’s and becomes eligible for an extension.

Murray will make money as soon as he’s drafted into the NFL. If Murray is picked up by a team in the first round, he will make minimum $10 million with a $5 million signing bonus on a four-year deal. Murray would make around $17 million if he’s drafted in the top-10 of the draft.

People who are against Murray’s decision are looking at the long- term health and potential bust aspect that the NFL possesses. But, if Murray suffers a long term injury playing baseball,, which is possible, he will lose out on more money than he would in the NFL.

Despite his size, Murray has the potential to be a solid quarterback in the NFL, as he can be a problem for opponents with his running ability and strong arm. When thinking about Murray, one should look at players like Russell Wilson and Drew Brees, who found success in the league despite their height.

From now to April, Murray will prepare for the NFL Draft Combine, which starts on Feb. 26, and for private team workouts and interviews. In the latest mock draft by CBS Sports, Murray is predicted to get picked up by the Miami Dolphins with the 13th pick.