The Arizona Cardinals are gearing up for the 2024 NFL season with a renewed sense of purpose and optimism. After enduring back-to-back 4-13 seasons, the team and its fanbase are ready to turn the page. Central to their resurgence is quarterback Kyler Murray, who has faced significant challenges over the past two years due to a torn ACL that limited his participation.
Murray, who is set to start the 2024 season at full strength, is no stranger to success. He won the 2019 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year and earned two Pro Bowl selections in his first three healthy seasons. Speaking about the upcoming season, Murray shared, "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 Cardinals have made significant moves to bolster their roster, notably selecting wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. with the fourth overall pick in the 2024 draft. Harrison Jr. led college football in touchdown catches over the last two seasons, marking him as a key addition to the team’s offensive arsenal. Murray expressed his excitement about the young receiver, stating, "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."
Improving the offensive line and skill positions around Murray is crucial for the Cardinals. Tight end Trey McBride showcased his potential last season, catching eight of his nine targets for 131 receiving yards in Week 10 against the Atlanta Falcons. From Weeks 10-18, McBride ranked among the top NFL tight ends in receptions and receiving yards, suggesting he could be a reliable target for Murray in 2024.
The Cardinals' rushing attack also proved formidable in 2023. The backfield, featuring Trey Benson, Emari Demercado, and Michael Carter alongside veteran James Conner, contributed to Arizona ranking fourth in the NFL in rushing yards per game. Conner himself had a standout year with 1,040 rushing yards and an average of five yards per carry, helping the Cardinals lead the league in games with 200 or more rushing yards. Reflecting on the run game’s success, Murray said, "Hell, I was surprised at how good we ran the ball last year... I've never seen so many wide open holes."
Murray's confidence extends beyond individual accolades and impressive statistics. He's eager to prove the doubters wrong and show the world what both he and the team are capable of achieving. "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.
The team's cohesion and the positive atmosphere within the locker room have further fueled their aspirations. "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," Murray noted, emphasizing the significance of strong leadership under head coach Jonathan Gannon.
As the Cardinals prepare for the 2024 season, their sights are set high. Murray made his ambitions clear, stating, "For this team? My goal is to 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." While their odds to win the NFC West, according to Caesars Sportsbook, stand at +1500, the Cardinals are determined to rise above expectations.
In summary, the Arizona Cardinals are poised for a transformative season with Kyler Murray at the helm. With promising talent like Marvin Harrison Jr. and Trey McBride, a potent rushing attack, and a revitalized team spirit, the Cardinals aim to make a significant impact in the NFL. Only time will tell if their quiet determination and hard work will translate into success on the field, but one thing is certain: the team is ready to make some noise.