The Arizona Cardinals have endured turbulent seasons recently, posting back-to-back 4-13 records. But as the 2024 NFL season approaches, there’s a palpable sense of quiet determination emanating from the team, led by quarterback Kyler Murray.
Murray's Return and Renewed Confidence
Kyler Murray, who has faced prolonged absences due to a torn ACL, is set to kick off the season at full strength. The 2019 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year and two-time Pro Bowl selection is eager to return to the field and prove his critics wrong. Murray acknowledges the skepticism surrounding him: "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."
His enthusiasm is not unfounded. Reflecting on his journey and recovery, Murray shared, "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."
Emerging Talent: Marvin Harrison Jr.
The Cardinals made a splash in the 2024 draft by selecting Marvin Harrison Jr. with the fourth overall pick. Harrison Jr., who led college football in touchdown catches over the past two seasons, has already made an impression on his new team. Murray is particularly excited about the young wide receiver’s potential, 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."
Strengthening the Offense
The Cardinals’ offense isn’t just about the passing game. Running backs Trey Benson, Emari Demercado, Michael Carter, and veteran James Conner form a formidable group. Conner, who had 1,040 rushing yards and an average of five yards per carry in 2023, is a key component of a run game that ranked fourth in the NFL in rushing yards per game and led the league with four games of 200 or more rushing yards last season. Reflecting on the team’s run game performance, Murray remarked, "Hell, I was surprised at how good we ran the ball last year... I've never seen so many wide open holes."
Building Chemistry
Further adding to the offensive arsenal is tight end Trey McBride, who demonstrated his chemistry with Murray by catching eight of his nine targets for 131 receiving yards in a Week 10 game against the Atlanta Falcons in 2023. From Weeks 10-18, McBride ranked among the top NFL tight ends in receptions and receiving yards, underscoring his importance to the Cardinals’ offensive success.
A Renewed Team Spirit
One of the most significant changes for the Cardinals this season is the sense of unity and confidence in the team. Murray shared his thoughts on the current atmosphere within the squad: "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."
Looking Ahead
Despite the odds, which Caesars Sportsbook places at +1500 for the Cardinals to win the NFC West, there is a determination to defy expectations. Murray’s aspirations are clear: "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."
As the 2024 season dawns, the Arizona Cardinals, with their revitalized roster and rejuvenated star quarterback, are poised to make their mark. Whether they can translate their renewed spirit into success on the field remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: they are ready to wake up the doubters.