The Arizona Cardinals are poised to make a significant impact in the 2024 NFL season, approaching the new year with quiet determination and renewed focus. After enduring consecutive 4-13 seasons, the team is set on altering their fortunes with a revitalized roster and a now-healthy Kyler Murray.
Murray, who missed substantial portions of the last two seasons due to a torn ACL, is ready to start the 2024 campaign at full strength. The 2019 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year and two-time Pro Bowl selection in his first three healthy seasons has a clear message for 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..."
Understanding the skepticism surrounding his return, Murray remains confident in his abilities and the potential of his team. "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."
New Talent, New Opportunities
One of the key additions to the Cardinals' roster is Marvin Harrison Jr., selected with the fourth overall pick in the 2024 draft. Harrison Jr. led college football in touchdown catches over the last two seasons, and Murray is eager to see him step onto the professional stage. "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 remarked.
Alongside Harrison Jr., tight end Trey McBride demonstrated his potential late last season. Notably, McBride caught eight of his nine targets from Murray for 131 receiving yards in Week 10 against the Atlanta Falcons. His performance from Weeks 10-18 positioned him among the top NFL tight ends in receptions and receiving yards, showcasing his growth and chemistry with Murray.
Dominance on the Ground
The Cardinals' running game also shined in 2023, with veterans and emerging talents contributing to a formidable ground attack. Running backs Trey Benson, Emari Demercado, and Michael Carter complemented the efforts of veteran James Conner, who amassed 1,040 rushing yards with an impressive average of five yards per carry. Reflecting on the run game, Murray noted, "Hell, I was surprised at how good we ran the ball last year... I've never seen so many wide open holes."
These efforts led Arizona to rank fourth in the league in rushing yards per game and secure the top spot with four games of 200 or more rushing yards. This potent rushing attack is a blueprint the Cardinals will look to build upon this season.
Optimism Despite Odds
Despite their struggles in the past two seasons, there's a palpable sense of optimism within the team. Murray himself feels a renewed confidence, both in his recovery and the collective spirit of his teammates. "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 of good things about him," said Murray, highlighting the supportive environment fostered by the coaching staff.
Sportsbooks, however, remain cautious about the Cardinals' prospects. Caesars Sportsbook has set the team's odds to win the NFC West at +1500. This underdog status doesn't deter Murray, who remains focused on his ultimate goal: "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."
The Cardinals' upcoming season is a testament to resilience and the drive to defy expectations. With a healthy Murray, promising new talent like Harrison Jr., and a robust rushing game, Arizona is gearing up to surprise those who underestimate them. As Murray succinctly puts it, "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."
Armed with determination and a clear vision, the Arizona Cardinals are prepared to make their mark in the 2024 NFL season, intent on rewriting their narrative and achieving success on their own terms.