As the Arizona Cardinals gear up for the 2024 NFL season, there's a palpable sense of quiet determination within the organization. After enduring two consecutive 4-13 seasons, the team is looking to turn things around with a roster brimming with potential and a revitalized Kyler Murray at quarterback.
Reflecting on the challenges faced, especially Murray's missing significant playing time due to a torn ACL over the past two seasons, it's clear why the Cardinals have been under the radar. Yet, Murray is optimistic and ready to prove doubters wrong. "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 stated, embodying the gritty resolve the Cardinals are bringing into the new season.
A Healthy Kyler Murray
Heading into the season at full strength, Murray's return brings a renewed hope for the Cardinals. Having won the 2019 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year and earning two Pro Bowl selections in his first three healthy seasons, his leadership and skill set are undeniable assets. "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 capable of, what this team's capable of," Murray expressed.
New Weapons and Proven Performers
The Cardinals made a significant splash in the 2024 draft, selecting Marvin Harrison Jr. with the fourth overall pick. Known for leading college football in touchdown catches over the past two seasons, Harrison Jr. is expected to be a game-changer. Murray couldn't hide his excitement: "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."
Alongside Harrison Jr., tight end Trey McBride has shown to be a reliable target, catching eight of his nine targets from Murray for 131 receiving yards in Week 10 against the Atlanta Falcons in 2023. McBride continued to rank among the top NFL tight ends in receptions and receiving yards from Weeks 10-18 last season, highlighting the burgeoning chemistry between the two.
A Dominant Ground Game
The backbone of any successful team often lies in its running game, and the Cardinals are no exception. The trio of Trey Benson, Emari Demercado, and Michael Carter are set to complement veteran James Conner, who had an impressive 2023 season with 1,040 rushing yards and an average of five yards per carry. Arizona's run game was fourth in the NFL in rushing yards per game and led the league with four games of 200 or more rushing yards.
Murray praised the surprising prowess of their rushing attack from last year: "Hell, I was surprised at how good we ran the ball last year... I've never seen so many wide open holes." The combination of Conner's experience and the dynamism of the younger backs promises a versatile and potent ground game for the upcoming season.
A Tight-Knit Team with Lofty Goals
The Cardinals' team chemistry and confidence have been bolstered by new coaching and leadership. Murray spoke highly of the coaching staff and the camaraderie within the squad, noting, "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 good things about him."
Despite facing long odds, with Caesars Sportsbook placing the Cardinals' chances of winning the NFC West at +1500, the team's ambitions remain high. As Murray put it, "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 approaches, the Arizona Cardinals are quietly yet resolutely positioning themselves as a team ready to surprise many. With a fully recovered star quarterback, promising new talent, and a cohesive unit, they undoubtedly have the potential to defy expectations and make a significant impact on the league.