As the Arizona Cardinals prepare for the upcoming NFL season, there is a palpable sense of optimism surrounding the team, largely due to the encouraging recovery and preparation of their star quarterback, Kyler Murray.
Murray, who was sidelined with an ACL injury late in the 2022 season, has spent the past year diligently working with the team's trainers to regain his full health. His commitment to rehabilitation has paid off, as this offseason marks the first time Murray has been able to fully participate in the team's preparatory programs under head coach Jonathan Gannon.
Reflecting on Murray's progress, Gannon couldn't hide his enthusiasm. "Physically and mentally, I mean, he looks damn good. He looks damn good," Gannon said. The head coach's confidence in Murray extends beyond just his physical recovery. Gannon emphasized the mental strides Murray has made, highlighting his quick adaptation to the team's system, despite minimal practice time last season.
A Tough Return
When Murray returned from his injury last season, his performance was commendable. He completed 65.7% of his passes, averaging 6.7 yards per attempt. Murray's statistics included 10 touchdowns against five interceptions, alongside an impressive 244 rushing yards and three rushing touchdowns.
This return was particularly challenging as Murray had to adapt on the fly. "You gotta think, he played really good football for us; he had never taken a snap in this offense until Atlanta [in Week 10]," Gannon noted. "He had a couple weeks of practice leading up to that, but no offseason program, no training camp. No however many games we played without him. Couple weeks of practice and then, you're going, 'Let's play football.'" This context underscores the significant progress Murray has made in both understanding and executing the team's strategy.
Offseason Transformation
The difference a full offseason can make is not lost on Gannon, who sees Murray as "leaps and bounds ahead" of where he was even at the end of last season. This advancement is crucial for both Murray and the Cardinals, as they look to leverage his skills to lead the team to success.
Gannon's relationship with Murray has also been a factor in the quarterback's development. "What I know about the guy, my relationship with him when I got this job: His will to win is extremely high," Gannon said. This will to win, combined with a clear roadmap for improvement, has driven Murray's offseason transformation.
"And if you detail out and lay out for him what is needed from him to improve himself, the offense, and the team, he is one thousand percent willing to do that," Gannon added. This willingness to improve, coupled with his leadership qualities both on and off the field, has made a significant impact on the team's dynamics.
New Additions and Future Prospects
As they enter the new season, the Cardinals are not just relying on Murray's return to full fitness. They have also added rookie wideout Marvin Harrison Jr. to their offensive lineup, providing Murray with another weapon to utilize. The young receiver's addition is expected to complement Murray's style, potentially boosting the team's offensive capabilities.
Gannon summed up his thoughts with clear admiration for Murray. "I love the guy because he's done everything that I've asked of him and more. He's been a phenomenal leader on and off the field -- not just with the offense, but with the entire team," he said. This endorsement from the head coach encapsulates the positive atmosphere within the team as they head into the season.
With Murray back at full strength and new talent added to the roster, the Arizona Cardinals are poised for an exciting season. The quarterback's journey from a sidelined player to a fully engaged team leader is a testament to his dedication and resilience, promising an invigorating chapter for the Cardinals and their fans.