The Arizona Cardinals enter the 2024 NFL season with a quiet but palpable determination. After enduring two consecutive 4-13 seasons, the team is looking to change its fortunes. A key component of this resurgence revolves around their star quarterback, Kyler Murray.
Kyler Murray's Comeback
Murray, who missed significant parts of the last two seasons due to a torn ACL, is set to return at full strength. With accolades like the 2019 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year and two Pro Bowl selections in his first three healthy seasons, Murray has shown he can be one of the league's elite quarterbacks. "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," said Murray.
The quarterback's optimism about the upcoming season is evident. "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 noted, expressing his faith in head coach Jonathan Gannon and his teammates.
Marvin Harrison Jr. Joins the Ranks
Amplifying the team's optimism is the addition of standout wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., selected with the fourth overall pick in the 2024 draft. Harrison Jr., who led college football in touchdown catches over the past two seasons, is expected to make an immediate impact. "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 said, highlighting the hardworking mentality of the rookie.
Improving the Offense
The return of tight end Trey McBride adds another offensive weapon for the Cardinals. Last season, McBride caught eight of his nine targets from Murray for 131 receiving yards in Week 10 against the Atlanta Falcons. Over the final eight weeks of the season, he was among the top NFL tight ends in receptions and receiving yards, solidifying his role as a reliable target.
Complementing the aerial attack is a formidable running game. In 2023, running back James Conner amassed 1,040 rushing yards, averaging five yards per carry. Arizona's run game ranked fourth in the NFL in rushing yards per game and led the league with four games of 200 or more rushing yards. Murray was candid about the effectiveness of their ground attack: "Hell, I was surprised at how good we ran the ball last year... I've never seen so many wide open holes."
The depth at the running back position is another asset, with Trey Benson, Emari Demercado, and Michael Carter bolstering the backfield alongside Conner. This balanced offense looks poised to challenge defenses both through the air and on the ground.
Aiming High
Despite the challenges the Cardinals have faced, the team remains resolute. Caesars Sportsbook places the Cardinals’ odds to win the NFC West at +1500, suggesting that many are sleeping on the team’s potential. However, Murray firmly believes the Cardinals have what it takes to prove their doubters wrong. "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.
Looking back at his own growth, Murray acknowledges the improvements he's made over the years. "I was watching the COVID year actually. 2020... I'm just looking, I'm so much better now... a lot of it has to do with being in a system where I feel like I don't have to do everything," he said, reflecting on his readiness to lead the team effectively.
As the 2024 season kicks off, the Cardinals hold a steadfast vision, undeterred by past setbacks. "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," Murray declared, encapsulating the team's spirit and ambition.
With a rejuvenated roster, key players returning to form, and a collective resolve, the Arizona Cardinals are set to make a significant push in the NFL this season.