NFL rumors: Kyler Murray faces ‘uphill battle’ to play vs. 49ers

Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray will try to play Sunday against the 49ers, but it isn't looking good for the dual-threat star.

NFL Media's Ian Rapoport reported Sunday morning that Murray faces "an uphill battle" and there "isn’t a ton of optimism." Murray did not practice this week as he recovers from an ankle injury. If he can't go, veteran QB Colt McCoy would start against San Francisco.

#AZCardinals QB Kyler Murray, who didn’t practice this week because of an ankle injury, will try to go, but there isn’t a ton of optimism for it, sources say. Colt McCoy took all the first-team reps and is ready. No one has ruled Murray out, but it appears to be an uphill battle.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 7, 2021

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There also is a chance the Cardinals are without their top receiver, too.

DeAndre Hopkins, who has only missed two games in his entire career, is battling a hamstring injury and also didn't practice all week. He's considered a game-time decision.

#AZCardinals WR DeAndre Hopkins, who has battled a hamstring and didn’t practice all week, is considered a game-time decision, source said. He almost always plays, but if there is ever an exception, this may be it. But Hopkins will try.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 7, 2021

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Both Hopkins and Murray played against the 49ers earlier this season in a 17-10 win for Arizona. Hopkins had six receptions for 87 yards and a touchdown. Murray completed 22 of his 31 attempts for 239 yards and one TD.