The Arizona Cardinals are gearing up for the 2024 NFL season with an air of quiet determination, following two challenging 4-13 seasons. As they prepare to turn the page, there's a renewed sense of optimism surrounding the team, especially with key players returning to full strength and promising new talents joining the roster.
Kyler Murray's Return
Central to the Cardinals' hopes is the return of quarterback Kyler Murray, who missed significant portions of the last two seasons due to a torn ACL. Now, he is set to start the 2024 season at full strength, ready to remind the league of his capabilities. Murray, the 2019 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year and a two-time Pro Bowler, is eager to lead his team back to prominence.
"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," Murray remarked.
Marvin Harrison Jr.'s Arrival
The Cardinals made a significant move in the 2024 draft by selecting wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. with the fourth overall pick. Harrison Jr. comes with an impressive college résumé, having led college football in touchdown catches over the last two seasons. His arrival adds a dynamic weapon to the Cardinals' offensive arsenal.
Murray expressed his excitement about the new addition: "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."
Strengthened Offensive Weapons
The Cardinals' offense will also benefit from a healthy Trey McBride, who emerged as a reliable target for Murray. McBride caught eight of his nine targets from Murray for 131 receiving yards in Week 10 against the Atlanta Falcons in 2023, and he ranked among the top NFL tight ends in receptions and receiving yards from Weeks 10-18 last season. This chemistry is expected to continue into the new season.
A Potent Ground Game
Arizona's ground game was a bright spot last season, ranking fourth in the NFL in rushing yards per game. Veteran running back James Conner contributed significantly, amassing 1,040 rushing yards and averaging five yards per carry. Complementing him are Trey Benson, Emari Demercado, and Michael Carter, forming a formidable backfield.
Murray reflected on their success: "Hell, I was surprised at how good we ran the ball last year... I've never seen so many wide open holes."
Confidence in Leadership
Beyond the player roster, there is growing confidence in the coaching staff led by Jonathan Gannon (JG). The Cardinals' belief in their coach's system and approach is palpable, with Murray 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, man, I can't say enough good things about him."
Facing the Odds
Despite their internal optimism, the Cardinals face external skepticism, with their odds of winning the NFC West placed at +1500 by Caesars Sportsbook. However, this doesn't faze Murray, who remains undeterred by the doubters.
"Yeah, I mean, let them sleep. Our job is to wake them up and allow them to realize what's going on out here," he asserted.
The ultimate goal for the team remains clear and ambitious. "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 emphasized.
As the Arizona Cardinals prepare to take the field in 2024, there's a mixture of reflection on their past challenges and a robust confidence in their future potential. With key players returning to form and a promising new talent in Marvin Harrison Jr., the stage is set for what could be a transformative season for the franchise.