The Arizona Cardinals are poised to enter the 2024 NFL season with a sense of quiet determination. The team, which has endured back-to-back 4-13 seasons, is now looking to turn the tide and take significant strides forward. At the forefront of this renewed optimism is quarterback Kyler Murray.
Murray, who missed a significant portion of the last two seasons due to a torn ACL, is set to start the 2024 season at full health. A former 2019 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year and two-time Pro Bowl selection in his first three healthy seasons, Murray is eager to prove himself once more. "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,” Murray stated, clearly focusing on the challenge ahead.
A Fresh Addition
Key to the Cardinals' potential resurgence is the addition of Marvin Harrison Jr., selected with the fourth overall pick in the 2024 draft. Harrison Jr., who led college football in touchdown catches over the last two seasons, brings a critical offensive weapon to the team. Murray’s excitement about his new teammate is palpable: "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."
A Dominant Ground Game
The Cardinals' running game was a bright spot in an otherwise challenging 2023 season. With 1,040 rushing yards and an average of five yards per carry, veteran James Conner was instrumental in Arizona ranking fourth in the NFL in rushing yards per game. Additionally, Arizona led the NFL with four games of 200 or more rushing yards. Complementing Conner are running backs Trey Benson, Emari Demercado, and Michael Carter, adding depth and versatility to the Cardinals' offensive backfield.
Murray acknowledged the impressive ground game, reflecting on the previous season: “Hell, I was surprised at how good we ran the ball last year... I've never seen so many wide open holes.” This strength in the running game can create opportunities for the passing game, with play-action options opening up more.
The Return of Key Players
Another significant factor in the Cardinals’ anticipated improvement is the return of tight end Trey McBride, who showed great chemistry with Murray in Week 10 against the Atlanta Falcons last season, catching eight of his nine targets for 131 receiving yards. McBride continued to rank among the top NFL tight ends in receptions and receiving yards from Weeks 10-18. His presence, along with other skilled offensive players, offers Murray several reliable options in the passing game.
Leadership and Vision
Leadership off the field will also be critical. Murray enthused about the team’s new outlook under 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 good things about him.” The team’s improved camaraderie under Gannon's leadership is another layer adding to the cautious yet determined optimism.
A return to full strength for Murray, combined with the dynamic potential of Marvin Harrison Jr., a robust running game, and renewed team chemistry, showcases the Cardinals’ intention to rise from the shadows and make a statement. “Yeah, I mean, let them sleep. Our job is to wake them up and allow them to realize what's going on out here,” Murray declared.
The task ahead is formidable, with Caesars Sportsbook placing the Cardinals' odds to win the NFC West at +1500. However, the team's renewed focus, bolstered by its blend of returning stars and new talents, presents a narrative ripe with potential. “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 stated, echoing a sentiment that encapsulates the aspirations of the Arizona Cardinals and their determined pursuit as they head into the 2024 season.