The Arizona Cardinals are set to enter the 2024 NFL season with a quiet determination, keen on shedding the underdog label that has clung to them following consecutive 4-13 seasons. Central to this renewed optimism is quarterback Kyler Murray, who is poised to start the season at full strength after missing significant time over the past two years due to a torn ACL.
Kyler Murray's Comeback
Murray, who captured the 2019 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award and earned two Pro Bowl selections in his first three healthy seasons, is eager to prove his mettle once again. Reflecting on the team's recent struggles, Murray acknowledged, "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."
Part of Murray's confidence stems from the bolstering of the Cardinals' roster. The team used their fourth overall pick in the 2024 draft to select Marvin Harrison Jr., a standout wide receiver who led college football in touchdown catches over the last two seasons. Murray has high praise for the rookie wideout, 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."
A Potent Ground Attack
While the spotlight often shines on Murray and the passing game, it’s the Cardinals’ rushing attack that quietly became a force to be reckoned with last season. Arizona’s ground game ranked fourth in the NFL in rushing yards per game and led the league with four games of 200 or more rushing yards. James Conner, the veteran running back, spearheaded this effort with 1,040 rushing yards and an impressive five yards per carry in 2023.
Murray himself expressed surprise at the effectiveness of their ground game, stating, "Hell, I was surprised at how good we ran the ball last year... I've never seen so many wide open holes." With a stable of running backs that includes Trey Benson, Emari Demercado, and Michael Carter complementing Conner, the Cardinals are positioned to continue pounding the rock with success.
Supporting Cast Stepping Up
Tight end Trey McBride also emerged as a key contributor, especially in the latter part of last season. He had a standout performance in Week 10 against the Atlanta Falcons, catching eight of his nine targets from Murray for 131 receiving yards. During Weeks 10-18, McBride ranked among the top NFL tight ends in receptions and receiving yards, providing a reliable target for Murray during a challenging season.
Murray’s own improvement and familiarity with the system have also played a crucial role in his renewed confidence. "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 remarked, highlighting his growth and the team's evolving offensive scheme.
Unwavering Confidence and Championship Aspirations
The arrival of new head coach Jonathan Gannon (JG) has also infused the team with a sense of unity and purpose. "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, man, I can't say enough of good things about him," Murray said, emphasizing the positive impact of the coaching staff.
As the Cardinals prepare to take the field for the 2024 season, their goal remains 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," Murray asserted, encapsulating the team’s ambitions.
Despite the odds set by Caesars Sportsbook, which places the Cardinals at +1500 to win the NFC West, there is a quiet confidence emanating from Arizona. "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, sending a clear message to their doubters.
With a rejuvenated roster, a fortified ground game, and a healthy Kyler Murray leading the charge, the Arizona Cardinals could be the dark horse of the 2024 NFL season, eager to awaken the league to their potential.