The Arizona Cardinals are poised for a comeback as they gear up for the 2024 NFL season. After enduring two consecutive 4-13 seasons, the franchise is investing in preparation and talent to turn the tide. The team’s quiet determination is a promising signal to fans hoping for a resurgence. An essential part of this transformation is the return of quarterback Kyler Murray at full strength after missing significant time over the past two seasons due to a torn ACL.
Murray’s stellar early career, which includes winning the 2019 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year and earning two Pro Bowl selections in his first three healthy seasons, is a testament to his potential impact when healthy. His optimism for the season is palpable. "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, signaling his readiness to lead the team to greater heights.
Revamped Offensive Lineup
The Cardinals made a significant move in the 2024 NFL draft by selecting Marvin Harrison Jr. with the fourth overall pick. Harrison Jr., who led college football in touchdown catches over the last two seasons, is expected to be a formidable addition to the roster. Murray spoke highly of the rookie, saying, "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."
Adding to the offensive arsenal is tight end Trey McBride, who showcased his potential by catching eight of his nine targets from Murray in a Week 10 game against the Atlanta Falcons in 2023, amassing 131 receiving yards. McBride ranked among the top NFL tight ends in receptions and receiving yards from Weeks 10-18 last season, indicating his growing role in the team's offensive strategy.
Strong Ground Game
Arizona's running game was a standout last season, ranking fourth in the NFL in rushing yards per game and leading the league with four games of 200 or more rushing yards. Running back James Conner, who had an impressive 1,040 rushing yards at an average of five yards per carry in 2023, will be complemented by Trey Benson, Emari Demercado, and Michael Carter. Reflecting on the surprising proficiency of the ground game, Murray commented, "Hell, I was surprised at how good we ran the ball last year... I've never seen so many wide open holes."
A Newfound Confidence
This year, there is a sense of renewed confidence within the team, driven by a close-knit group of players and strong leadership from the coaching staff, including head coach Jonathan Gannon. Murray's conviction in the current team setup is clear: "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."
Despite understanding the outside skepticism, Murray remains unfazed and motivated. "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 expressed.
The Road Ahead
With Caesars Sportsbook placing the Cardinals' odds to win the NFC West at +1500, the expectations externally may be modest. However, the internal goal remains ambitious. "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, setting a high bar for his teammates.
As the Cardinals embark on the 2024 season, they are driven by the belief in what they can achieve, bolstered by returning star power, promising rookies, and a cohesive, supportive team environment. Cardinals faithful will be keenly watching as this narrative of resilience and potential unfolds on the field.