As the Arizona Cardinals gear up for the 2024 NFL season, they carry a quiet yet palpable sense of determination. The team, battered by consecutive 4-13 seasons, is poised for a resurgence and intends to silence their doubters. At the heart of this resurgence is quarterback Kyler Murray, who is set to return to full strength after a significant absence due to a torn ACL. Murray’s comeback is crucial for the Cardinals, and his optimism is infectious. "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, underscoring his readiness to lead the charge.
Despite the team's recent struggles, Murray’s track record speaks volumes. The 2019 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year has already secured two Pro Bowl selections during his first three healthy seasons. His presence on the field has always been a game-changer, and his return is seen as a pivotal moment for the Cardinals' aspirations this year. "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," added Murray.
Rookie Sensation: Marvin Harrison Jr.
The Cardinals have also bolstered their roster with significant newcomers, the most notable being Marvin Harrison Jr., drafted fourth overall in the 2024 draft. A prolific talent, Harrison led college football in touchdown receptions over the last two seasons. The young wideout’s work ethic has already caught Murray’s eye. "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, hinting at Harrison’s potential to make an immediate impact.
The Strength of the Running Game
Opponents will also need to contend with Arizona’s formidable ground game. Ranking fourth in the NFL for rushing yards per game in 2023, the Cardinals recorded an impressive four games with 200 or more rushing yards. A key contributor to this success was James Conner, who amassed 1,040 rushing yards and averaged five yards per carry. "Hell, I was surprised at how good we ran the ball last year... I've never seen so many wide open holes," Murray recalled. This strength on the ground, supported by Trey Benson, Emari Demercado, and Michael Carter, promises a balanced offensive attack.
Tight end Trey McBride also emerged as a reliable target, particularly when Murray was on the field. McBride’s standout performance in Week 10 against the Atlanta Falcons saw him catch eight of nine targets for 131 receiving yards. His prominence continued as he ranked among the top NFL tight ends in receptions and receiving yards from Weeks 10-18 last season.
Optimism and Leadership
Murray's commitment and conviction are apparent. Reflecting on his growth, he said, "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." This self-awareness, combined with newfound confidence in head coach Jonathan Gannon (JG), further strengthens Murray’s belief in the team’s potential. "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," he praised.
As the team embarks on a new season, Murray’s goals remain unwaveringly high. "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," he asserted. With Murray back at the helm, the Cardinals are set to aim high, driven by confidence, preparation, and the sheer determination to alter their fortunes.