The Arizona Cardinals are approaching the 2024 NFL season with a quiet determination, fueled by past disappointments and a renewed sense of purpose. After enduring consecutive 4-13 seasons, the Cardinals have a lot to prove. The return of their star quarterback Kyler Murray, now at full strength after recovering from a torn ACL, is central to their hopes.
Kyler Murray’s Comeback
Murray, who missed a significant portion of the last two seasons due to his injury, is poised for a big return. Having won the 2019 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year and earning two Pro Bowl selections in his first three healthy seasons, the dynamic quarterback knows the expectations are high. "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," he said.
Murray's optimism is infectious, especially regarding the arrival of Marvin Harrison Jr., whom the Cardinals selected with the fourth overall pick in the 2024 draft. Harrison Jr. led college football in touchdown catches over the last two seasons, and his work ethic has already impressed Murray. "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," Murray shared, highlighting the rookie's dedication.
An Aerial and Ground Assault
Arizona's offensive strategy will revolve around more than just Murray and Harrison Jr. Tight end Trey McBride emerged as a reliable target, particularly in the latter part of last season. McBride caught eight of his nine targets from Murray for 131 receiving yards in Week 10 against the Atlanta Falcons, solidifying his role as a top NFL tight end in receptions and receiving yards from Weeks 10-18 last season.
The Cardinals' ground game, which ranked fourth in the NFL in rushing yards per game in 2023, is another weapon in their arsenal. James Conner, who amassed 1,040 rushing yards and averaged five yards per carry, leads a formidable backfield complemented by Trey Benson, Emari Demercado, and Michael Carter. "Hell, I was surprised at how good we ran the ball last year... I've never seen so many wide open holes," Murray reflected on their stellar run game.
Ready to Open Eyes
Despite their potential, the Cardinals face skepticism, as reflected in their +1500 odds to win the NFC West according to Caesars Sportsbook. However, this isn't dampening Murray's spirit. "Yeah, I mean, let them sleep. Our job is to wake them up and allow them to realize what's going on out here..." he said confidently.
Murray, now in a more stable system where he feels he does not have to shoulder everything, expressed his confidence in the team and Head Coach Jonathan Gannon. "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."
The road ahead for the Cardinals is challenging, but the foundations are set for a potential resurgence. With a revitalized Murray at the helm, an exciting new addition in Harrison Jr., a versatile running game, and a rejuvenated team spirit, the Cardinals are gearing up to surprise the NFL world. As Murray himself stated, "For this team? My goal is to 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."