The Arizona Cardinals are stepping into the 2024 NFL season with an undercurrent of quiet determination. After enduring back-to-back 4-13 seasons, the team is eager to rewrite their narrative, and the return of a rejuvenated Kyler Murray is central to their strategy.
Kyler Murray's Return
Murray, who missed significant portions of the last two seasons due to a torn ACL, is now set to start the 2024 season at full strength. Reflecting on the skepticism surrounding his comeback, 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."
The quarterback's past accolades are a testament to his potential. He won the 2019 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year and earned two Pro Bowl selections in his first three healthy seasons. Now, he is ready to channel his energy into translating personal success into team victories. "This is the most confident I've been in the team in a while... It’s a very tight-knit group," he shared, emphasizing the cohesion and camaraderie within the squad.
New Additions and Offensive Strength
A critical part of the Cardinals' strategy for 2024 lies in their fresh talent. Selecting Marvin Harrison Jr. with the fourth overall pick in the 2024 draft has brought a new level of anticipation. Harrison Jr. led college football in touchdown catches over the last two seasons, and Murray is effusive in his praise. "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," Murray noted.
Tight end Trey McBride is another crucial element of the Cardinals' offensive lineup. McBride's stellar performance in Week 10 against the Atlanta Falcons in 2023, where he caught eight of his nine targets from Murray for 131 receiving yards, showcased his potential. McBride was among the top NFL tight ends in receptions and receiving yards from Weeks 10-18 last season, offering a reliable target for Murray.
The Dynamic Run Game
The Cardinals' running game is also a force to be reckoned with, featuring a mix of seasoned and emerging talent. Running backs Trey Benson, Emari Demercado, and Michael Carter complement veteran James Conner, who had 1,040 rushing yards with an average of five yards per carry in 2023. Arizona's run game ranked fourth in the NFL in rushing yards per game last season, and the team led the league with four games of 200 or more rushing yards. "Hell, I was surprised at how good we ran the ball last year... I've never seen so many wide open holes," Murray recounted, highlighting the effectiveness of the line and the backs.
Chasing the NFC West
Despite a challenging road ahead, the Cardinals are not deterred. Caesars Sportsbook places their odds to win the NFC West at +1500, an indication of the uphill battle they face. However, Murray's response to being underestimated is clear: "Yeah, I mean, let them sleep. Our job is to wake them up and allow them to realize what's going on out here..."
The 2024 season marks a turning point for the Cardinals. With a well-rounded team and a determined spirit, they are aiming high. As Murray expressed, "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."
This blend of seasoned leadership, emerging stars, and an effective running game sets the stage for a compelling season. If the Cardinals can harness this mix, they might just defy the odds and wake up the doubters.