Kyler Murray is one of the most unique quarterbacks in Madden NFL 26. With blazing speed, shifty acceleration, and Madden 26 coins a strong but sometimes streaky arm, he brings a completely different playstyle compared to traditional pocket passers. If you’re looking to maximize his impact in both Ultimate Team and Franchise modes, you’ll need to play to his strengths while covering for his weaknesses. This guide breaks down how to use Murray effectively, the best schemes to run, and key strategies for dominating both online and offline competition.

1. Understanding Kyler Murray’s Madden 26 Ratings

While ratings may shift with roster updates, Murray’s core identity in Madden 26 is built around three categories:

Speed & Agility (Top Tier): Murray’s speed rating sits in the mid-90s, with elite agility and acceleration. He’s one of the fastest quarterbacks in the game, giving him immediate threat as a scrambler.

Throw Power (Above Average): His arm strength allows him to push the ball downfield, though not quite at the elite Josh Allen or Patrick Mahomes level.

Accuracy (Mixed): Short accuracy is reliable, but medium and deep throws can be streaky depending on pressure. Timing routes matter.

Size & Durability (Below Average): At 5’10”, Murray doesn’t see over the line as easily in Madden simulations, and he’s more prone to fumbling when hit than bigger QBs.

Takeaway: You want to leverage his mobility, protect him with quick reads, and avoid unnecessary hits.

2. Offensive Schemes That Maximize Murray

Kyler Murray thrives in spread and read-option systems. In Madden 26, the following playbooks give him the best chance to succeed:

Arizona Cardinals Playbook: Naturally tailored for him, with heavy shotgun, RPOs, and read-options.

Baltimore Ravens Playbook: Built for mobile quarterbacks, giving you a Lamar Jackson-style scheme.

Custom Playbooks: If you like creating your own system, focus on shotgun formations with plenty of RPOs, PA bootlegs, and vertical passing.

Best Formations to Use

Shotgun Trips TE Flex: Great mix of pass and run options.

Shotgun Empty Flex: Maximizes space for scrambling lanes.

Pistol Strong Slot: Balances option plays with passing threats.

3. Passing Game with Kyler Murray

Murray isn’t just a runner—his passing game is lethal when used correctly. Here’s how to maximize his arm:

Quick Passing

Use slants, drags, and mesh concepts. His short accuracy makes him deadly on RPO bubble screens and quick slants.

Play-Action Passing

Murray sells play-action well, especially when you’ve already established the QB run threat. Plays like PA Boot Slide open up crossing routes while letting him roll out into space.

Deep Shots

Target go routes and deep posts when safeties bite on the run. His throw power lets him stretch the field, but avoid forcing contested throws.

Rolling Out

Rolling Murray out of the pocket cuts the field in half but reduces pressure. Use design bootlegs instead of scrambling every time, keeping defenses honest.

4. Running Game with Murray

This is where he shines. Few QBs can change a game with their legs like Murray.

Read-Option

Madden 26’s read-option mechanics are smoother than ever. With Murray, defenses must account for the QB keep every time, opening up inside zone runs for your RB.

QB Scramble

When the pocket collapses, use his speed to escape. Slide early (double-tap Square/X) to avoid fumbles. Don’t try to truck defenders—protect the ball.

Designed Runs

Plays like QB Power and QB Draw are risky but effective when defenses go heavy coverage. Mix them in sparingly to keep opponents guessing.

Key Tip: Don’t Overuse

Scrambling every down will get Murray injured in Franchise or cause fumbles in Ultimate Team. Balance runs with quick passes to stay unpredictable.

5. Abilities & X-Factors for Murray

To elevate Murray in Madden 26, equip the right Superstar abilities in Franchise or MUT.

Best Superstar Abilities

Escape Artist: Boosts scrambling speed outside the pocket.

Quickdraw: Faster release when pressured, key for his height disadvantage.

Dashing Deadeye: Perfect accuracy on the run within 40 yards.

Fast Break: Makes option plays more effective by speeding up decision windows.

Best X-Factor

First One Free: Improves jukes and spins for huge scrambles.

Bazooka (optional): Extends his deep throw range, useful if you emphasize verticals.

6. Playing Against Human Opponents

Online opponents know Murray’s biggest threat is his legs. Expect them to use QB spies or contains. Here’s how to counter:

Beat the Spy: Use crossing routes to pull linebackers away, forcing spies to hesitate.

Motion Plays: Motion receivers to identify coverage, then decide whether to scramble.

Hit Checkdowns: If they overcommit to the spy, your RB or TE will be wide open underneath.

The goal is to make defenses fear both the pass and the run—once they hesitate, Murray takes over.

7. Franchise Mode with Murray

In Franchise, Murray is a long-term project who can dominate if built correctly:

Upgrade Priorities: Focus XP on Medium Accuracy and Throw Under Pressure first. Speed is already elite.

Surround Him with Weapons: Tall WRs and reliable TEs help offset his size disadvantage.

Build the O-Line: Scrambling is great, but giving him time in the pocket turns him into a complete QB.

By Year 2 or 3 in Franchise, Murray can easily become a 95+ overall dual-threat leader.

8. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Forcing Deep Throws: His accuracy is inconsistent—take what defenses give you.

Not Sliding: Fumbles are Murray’s biggest weakness. Always protect him.

Overusing Option Plays: Mix in traditional runs and passes to keep defenses guessing.

Ignoring Pocket Presence: Don’t scramble immediately; buy time and keep your eyes downfield.

Final Verdict

Kyler Murray in Madden 26 is one of the most electrifying quarterbacks you can use cheap Madden 26 coins. He’s not a classic pocket passer, but when utilized correctly, his speed and dual-threat skill set make him nearly impossible to defend. Run a spread or read-option system, lean on short and medium passes, and mix in designed scrambles to maximize his potential. Protect him with slides, give him playmakers, and Murray can lead your offense to dominance both online and in Franchise.

Play to his strengths, and Kyler Murray will feel like a cheat code in Madden 26.