The Arizona Cardinals are embarking on the 2024 NFL season infused with a sense of quiet determination, striving to overturn recent woes and reclaim their status as contenders. Having weathered consecutive 4-13 seasons, the team is banking on the return of a fully fit Kyler Murray to steer them back on course.
Kyler Murray's Return
After grappling with the challenges of a torn ACL that significantly sidelined him over the past two seasons, Kyler Murray is set to start the season at full strength. The 2019 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year and two-time Pro Bowler is brimming with confidence and eager to 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 said, alluding to the doubters ready to count the Cardinals out. It's a sentiment he echoed in acknowledging the current criticisms. "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."
New Talent and Strong Veterans
The Cardinals' strategy also hinges on fresh talent and strengthened veteran presence. With their fourth overall pick in the 2024 draft, they secured Marvin Harrison Jr., who led college football in touchdown catches over the past two seasons. Murray expressed his excitement for the new addition, 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."
Meanwhile, the run game, bolstered by veteran James Conner, who amassed 1,040 rushing yards with an average of five yards per carry in 2023, remains among the league's most formidable. Conner's consistency, complemented by running backs Trey Benson, Emari Demercado, and Michael Carter, helped Arizona rank fourth in the NFL in rushing yards per game last season and lead the league in four games of 200 or more rushing yards.
Offensive Strategy and Key Players
As Arizona's offensive strategies evolve, the connection between Murray and his targets will be crucial. Tight end Trey McBride shone in the latter stages of last season, particularly in a standout performance against the Atlanta Falcons in Week 10, where he caught eight of his nine targets from Murray for 131 receiving yards. McBride’s performance placed him among the top NFL tight ends in receptions and receiving yards from Weeks 10-18.
Reflecting on past seasons and his current state, Murray noted, "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." This confidence extends to his view of the team's present composition. "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."
Overcoming Skepticism
The Cardinals understand the skepticism that surrounds them. Caesars Sportsbook has the team pegged at +1500 odds to win the NFC West, a reflection of widespread doubt. Yet, for Murray and the Cardinals, there is no lack of ambition. "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."
Ultimately, the blend of seasoned veterans, promising new talent, and a revitalized Kyler Murray presents a formula for potential resurgence. The journey ahead is one fraught with challenges, but for the Arizona Cardinals, the 2024 NFL season is viewed as an opportunity to awaken skeptics and demonstrate their capability on the field.