The Arizona Cardinals are gearing up for the 2024 NFL season with a quiet determination that many in the league have yet to recognize. Despite enduring consecutive 4-13 seasons, the team’s outlook is brighter thanks to the full-strength return of quarterback Kyler Murray, who has been sidelined for a significant portion of the past two years due to a torn ACL. As Murray himself puts it, "I can understand why people are sleeping on me... In this world, it's kind of what have you done for me lately? We haven't won. So, I understand, but I'm primed and ready to prove what I'm able to do, what I'm capable of, what this team's capable of."
The Cardinals have made some pivotal moves heading into the season, most notably selecting Marvin Harrison Jr. with the fourth overall pick in the 2024 draft. Harrison Jr. has made quite an impression in college football, leading the nation in touchdown catches over the last two seasons. Murray expressed his enthusiasm for the new addition, stating, "I'm super excited for Marvin... The way they carry themselves off the field, in the building, he's catching jugs before or after practice. And a lot of guys do that, but it's different."
Optimism Surrounding Kyler Murray’s Return
Kyler Murray's accolades speak for themselves. The 2019 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year and a two-time Pro Bowl selection in his first three healthy seasons, Murray is pivotal to the Cardinals' success. His confidence is palpable. "For this team? My goal is win the Super Bowl. That's always going to be my goal... I'm excited, but I'm not putting any limits on what this team can do," he said. This newfound optimism is infectious among his teammates and coaching staff, hinting at a revitalized team spirit.
Strength in the Running Game
Complimenting Murray’s skills is an impressive running game. In 2023, James Conner emerged as a formidable force, amassing 1,040 rushing yards and maintaining an average of five yards per carry. This propulsion helped Arizona rank fourth in the NFL for rushing yards per game. Adding depth to the position, running backs Trey Benson, Emari Demercado, and Michael Carter provide a solid foundation for the Cardinals' offense. As Murray candidly admitted, "Hell, I was surprised at how good we ran the ball last year... I've never seen so many wide open holes."
A Breakout Year for Trey McBride
Tight end Trey McBride has also shown signs of becoming a critical asset for Murray and the Cardinals. In Week 10 against the Atlanta Falcons in 2023, McBride caught eight of his nine targets from Murray, totaling 131 receiving yards. His consistency from Weeks 10-18 propelled him to be among the top tight ends in receptions and receiving yards during that period, showcasing his potential to elevate the Cardinals' aerial attack.
New Leadership and a Renewed Focus
Head coach Jonathan Gannon and his staff have fostered a cohesive team environment, which Murray has noticeably appreciated. "This is the most confident I've been in the team in a while... It’s a very tight-knit group. And the coaches, and JG [Gannon], man, I can't say enough of good things about him," Murray commented. The coaching shift seems to be paying dividends, instilling a culture of confidence and unity within the team.
Facing the Odds
The Cardinals, however, are not yet the bookmakers' favorites. Caesars Sportsbook places their odds to win the NFC West at +1500, reflecting the skepticism that lingers in the broader NFL community. But this underdog status is something Murray embraces. "Yeah, I mean, let them sleep. Our job is to wake them up and allow them to realize what's going on out here..." His words resonate with a team ready to prove their detractors wrong and showcase their true potential.
Heading into the 2024 season, the Arizona Cardinals find themselves at a crossroads. With a blend of young talent, experienced veterans, and a quarterback hungry to affirm his place among the league’s elite, the stage is set for a possible turnaround. Whether they can translate this potential into wins remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the Cardinals are ready to move past their recent struggles and make a significant impact.