As the Arizona Cardinals prepare for the upcoming NFL season, optimism is palpable in the air, buoyed by the comeback of their star quarterback, Kyler Murray. Murray, who was sidelined with an ACL injury late in the 2022 season, has worked hard to return to full strength.
One year ago, the Cardinals were entering their first season with head coach Jonathan Gannon at the helm. During that initial transition period, Murray's absence was keenly felt. Despite these setbacks, Murray's tireless work with the team's trainers throughout the offseason has led to a remarkable recovery. This time around, unlike last year, Murray has been a full participant in the offseason program, signaling a significant step forward for the team.
A Remarkable Comeback
Following his return from injury last season, Murray demonstrated his resilience by completing 65.7% of his passes, averaging 6.7 yards per attempt. His performance on the field included 10 touchdowns against five interceptions, supplemented by 244 rushing yards and three additional rushing scores. With such stats, his presence has undoubtedly reinvigorated the Cardinals’ offense.
Head coach Jonathan Gannon couldn’t be more enthusiastic about Murray's current state. "Physically and mentally, I mean, he looks damn good. He looks damn good," Gannon remarked, emphasizing the quarterback's physical and mental readiness. Gannon elaborated on the challenges Murray faced last season when he returned without the benefit of a proper offseason. "You gotta think, he played really good football for us; he had never taken a snap in this offense until Atlanta [in Week 10], you know what I mean, his first game back. I mean, he had a couple weeks of practice leading up to that, but no offseason program, no training camp. No however many games we played without him. Couple weeks of practice and then, you're going, 'Let's play football.'"
Exceeding Expectations
Coach Gannon expressed great confidence in Murray’s improved condition, stating, "So, I think from a mental and physical standpoint, right now where he's at, to even when he got back last year or even where he finished last year, I think he's leaps and bounds ahead." This assessment suggests that Murray's readiness has surpassed last season's peak, promising a higher level of performance.
Gannon’s admiration for Murray goes beyond the player’s physical attributes. "What I know about the guy, my relationship with him when I got this job: His will to win is extremely high," Gannon noted, highlighting the strong rapport and mutual understanding between coach and quarterback. He added, "And if you detail out and lay out for him what is needed from him to improve himself, the offense and the team, he is one thousand percent willing to do that."
A Leader Both On and Off the Field
Murray’s leadership qualities have also earned Gannon's praise. "I love the guy, because he's done everything that I've asked of him and more. He's been a phenomenal leader on and off the field -- not just with the offense, but with the entire team," the coach stated. This endorsement signifies Murray's integral role within the organization's culture and his potential impact on the team's overall success.
The Cardinals have further bolstered their offense by adding promising rookie wide receiver, Marvin Harrison Jr. This new addition is expected to complement Murray’s playing style and enhance the team’s offensive potency. Together, Murray's return and Harrison Jr.'s potential create a buzz of excitement for the Cardinals' prospects in the new season.
As Arizona looks ahead, the team and its fans have plenty of reasons to be hopeful. With Murray's successful recovery, full participation in the offseason program, and the support of a strengthened roster, the Cardinals are setting the stage for a season marked by resilience and potential triumph.