The Arizona Cardinals are stepping into the 2024 NFL season with a renewed sense of purpose and quiet determination.
Having weathered back-to-back 4-13 seasons, the team is eager to reverse its fortunes. A critical element in their resurgence is the return of franchise quarterback Kyler Murray, who missed significant time over the past two seasons due to a torn ACL. Now, with Murray set to start the season at full strength, anticipation is building among the Cardinals' faithful.
"I can understand why people are sleeping on me," Murray admits. "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."
Marquee Additions
The Cardinals' front office made a bold move by selecting Marvin Harrison Jr. with the fourth overall pick in the 2024 draft. Harrison led college football in touchdown catches over the last two seasons, and his arrival injects a new wave of optimism into the team’s offensive ambitions. Murray is particularly excited 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," Murray notes.
Offensive Weapons
Tight end Trey McBride also showcased his capabilities last season, catching eight of his nine targets from Murray 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. His chemistry with Murray could be a pivotal factor in the team's aerial attack.
Complementing the passing game is a robust ground attack spearheaded by running backs Trey Benson, Emari Demercado, Michael Carter, and veteran James Conner. Conner, in particular, was a standout performer last season, amassing 1,040 rushing yards and averaging five yards per carry. This effort contributed to Arizona's run game ranking fourth in the NFL in rushing yards per game and leading 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 reflects.
Changing Dynamics
As the team embraces a new season, Murray has found confidence in the overall structure and support around him. Reflecting on past years, he observes significant improvement and better adaptability within the current system.
"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," Murray shares.
The coaching staff, led by head coach Jonathan Gannon, also receives high praise from Murray. "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."
Long-term Goals
Despite the external skepticism, the Cardinals have set their sights high for the 2024 season. Murray remains steadfast in his aspirations for the team. "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."
With Caesars Sportsbook placing the Cardinals' odds to win the NFC West at +1500, the outside world may doubt their potential. However, within the team's camp, there's a growing belief that this year might herald a turning point.
As the Arizona Cardinals prepare for the new season, they do so with a collective resolve to not just wake up the league but to assert themselves as a force to be reckoned with. The journey ahead will be challenging, but with a reloaded roster and a determined quarterback at the helm, the Cardinals are poised to defy expectations.