• Arizona Cardinals QB Kyler Murray issued an apology for a controversial Instagram photo featuring his pitbull, Trunks, while wearing a Michael Vick jersey.
• The photo sparked criticism due to Vick’s 2007 dogfighting conviction, prompting Murray to remove the post.
• Murray emphasized his love for his dogs and clarified he does not support animal cruelty.
• The incident highlights the importance of thoughtful social media choices for public figures.
• Murray’s quick response shows accountability and a commitment to learning from mistakes.

A Misstep on Social Media

As a football fan, I’ve always admired how athletes connect with fans through social media—it’s like a window into their lives off the field. But sometimes, even well-meaning posts can miss the mark. 

That’s what happened when Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray shared an Instagram photo posing with his pitbull, Trunks, while sporting a white Virginia Tech Michael Vick jersey.

 The image, posted in September 2025, quickly drew backlash because of Vick’s 2007 conviction for running a dogfighting ring in Virginia, for which he served 21 months in prison. What seemed like a casual photo turned into a lesson in perception, leading to the Kyler Murray apology that followed.

The Photo That Sparked Controversy

In the now-deleted post, Murray stood proudly with Trunks, his beloved pitbull, while wearing a jersey honoring Michael Vick, a player he grew up admiring. On the surface, it was just a guy showing love for his dog and a childhood idol. 

But the combination—Vick’s jersey and a pitbull—hit a nerve. Vick’s past involvement in dogfighting made the image feel tone-deaf to some fans, and the criticism poured in online. I’ve seen how quickly social media can amplify a misstep, and for Murray, the reaction was swift and intense.

Murray’s Apology: Owning the Mistake

By Wednesday, September 17, 2025, the Kyler Murray apology came during a press conference. “I don’t condone animal cruelty or dogfighting in any way,” he said. “Growing up, I looked up to Michael Vick as a player, and that’s why I wore the jersey. 

My dogs, Trunks and Swoosh, are treated like royalty at home. I saw how the post affected people, so I took it down.” His words felt genuine, like someone who realized the unintended impact of a choice and wanted to make it right.

Murray’s decision to delete the post after seeing fans’ reactions showed accountability. It’s a reminder that public figures, like quarterbacks, live under a microscope. 

One photo can spiral into a PR storm if it’s misread. I’ve had moments where I’ve posted something online without thinking it through—maybe not on this scale—but enough to know how important it is to pause and reflect.

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Context Matters: Murray’s Intent vs. Perception

Murray made it clear he had no ill intentions. The jersey was a nod to Vick’s electrifying playstyle, not his off-field actions. 

And anyone who follows Murray knows he’s a devoted pet owner. “My dogs are my family,” he said, emphasizing how well-cared-for Trunks and Swoosh are. Still, the optics of the photo—pairing a pitbull with Vick’s name—carried a weight Murray hadn’t considered. It’s like wearing a vintage band tee without realizing the band’s controversial history; the message you send isn’t always the one you meant.

Just days before the controversy, Murray wore the same No. 7 Vick jersey to State Farm Stadium for the Cardinals’ 27–22 win over the Carolina Panthers on September 14, 2025. 

That moment didn’t raise eyebrows, but the dog photo changed the context. It’s a stark example of how the same action can land differently depending on the setting.

Why This Matters for Athletes and Fans

This incident underscores a broader truth: social media is a double-edged sword for athletes. It’s a way to build their brand and connect with fans, but it also demands careful thought. 

Murray’s quick response—acknowledging the backlash, apologizing, and removing the post—sets an example for how to handle a misstep with grace. 

For fans, it’s a reminder to balance critique with context. Murray didn’t intend to offend, but he listened and acted when he saw the hurt his post caused.

Looking Forward: A Lesson in Awareness

Murray’s response feels like a genuine step toward mending the disconnect. As a fan, I appreciate when athletes own their mistakes rather than doubling down. 

This moment won’t define Murray’s career—he’s still the dynamic QB who led the Cardinals to a thrilling victory over the Panthers—but it’s a chance for growth. It’s like when you learn to double-check a text before hitting send. 

For Murray, it’s a reminder to think about how his choices, even small ones like a jersey, might be seen through a wider lens. Here’s hoping he keeps shining on the field and stays mindful off it.

Aliha

Hi, I’m Aliha! I’ve been a huge NFL fan for as long as I can remember, and I love sharing my thoughts, updates, and insights about the game. Whether it’s big plays, team news, or behind-the-scenes stories, writing about the NFL gives me a chance to connect with fellow fans who share the same passion for football.