The Arizona Cardinals head into the 2024 NFL season with a sense of strong resolve, determined to overcome the shadows of consecutive 4-13 seasons. Central to this rejuvenation is their star quarterback, Kyler Murray, who is set to begin the season at full strength after missing significant time over the past two years due to a torn ACL.
Murray Ready to Prove Himself
Murray, who captured the 2019 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year and has two Pro Bowl selections in his initial three healthy seasons, 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," Murray said. "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 confidence is not just in his physical recovery but also in the synergy of the team. “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." Murray further expressed optimism about the team's potential, stating, “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.”
New Faces and Rising Stars
A significant boost to the Cardinals' offensive lineup is the addition of Marvin Harrison Jr., selected fourth overall in the 2024 draft. Harrison Jr. brings an impressive track record, having led college football in touchdown catches over the last two seasons. Murray's excitement about the newcomer 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."
Complementing Harrison Jr. is tight end Trey McBride, who showcased his chemistry with Murray in Week 10 of the previous season, catching eight of nine targets for 131 receiving yards against the Atlanta Falcons. McBride's performance from Weeks 10-18 further solidified his reputation, ranking among the top NFL tight ends in receptions and receiving yards.
A Dominant Run Game
Arizona's rushing attack, bolstered by running backs Trey Benson, Emari Demercado, Michael Carter, and veteran James Conner, ranked fourth in the NFL in rushing yards per game in 2023. Conner himself recorded 1,040 rushing yards with an impressive average of five yards per carry. Reflecting on the past season, Murray admitted, “Hell, I was surprised at how good we ran the ball last year... I've never seen so many wide open holes.” The Cardinals led the league with four games exceeding 200 rushing yards, a testament to their powerful ground game.
Facing the Odds
Despite the revitalized roster and Murray's return to form, the Cardinals remain underdogs, with Caesars Sportsbook placing their odds to win the NFC West at +1500. Yet, this underestimation seems to have fueled the team's internal fire. Murray embodies this sentiment, stating, “Yeah, I mean, let them sleep. Our job is to wake them up and allow them to realize what's going on out here...”
As the Cardinals prepare to embark on their 2024 campaign, Murray has set his sights high. “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.” With renewed vigor, promising talents, and a cohesive unit, the Arizona Cardinals are poised to challenge expectations and perhaps awaken the NFL to their potential this season.