What happened: O'Connell framed Kyler Murray as the best option at quarterback right now. He said the decision allows the team to move forward after the competition.
Why it matters: Prioritizing experience signals a win-now approach for a veteran roster. Murray's low-cost contract limits the financial risk attached to that choice.
By the numbers: Murray joined on a one-year, $1.3 million deal; $36.8 million of his 2026 pay remains owed under his previous contract.
What to watch: O'Connell's allocation of first-team preseason reps will show how quickly the offense consolidates around Murray.