The Arizona Cardinals removed a unique clause from quarterback Kyler Murray's massive new contract that mandated four hours of independent film study per week, saying that it caused an unintended "distraction" for the team in a statement released Thursday night.
Murray signed a five-year contract worth up to $230.5 million with $160 million guaranteed this month. Reports got out that the deal included the "independent study addendum," which Murray faced questions about Thursday as narratives around commitment and professionalism multiplied.
"After seeing the distraction it created, we removed the addendum from the contract," the Cardinals said in a statement. "It was clearly perceived in ways that were never intended. Our confidence in Kyler Murray is as high as it's ever been and nothing demonstrates our belief in his ability to lead this team more than the commitment reflected in this contract."