As the Arizona Cardinals prepare for a new NFL season, all eyes are on their star quarterback Kyler Murray, who appears poised for a significant comeback. After being sidelined with an ACL injury toward the end of the 2022 campaign, Murray has worked tirelessly during the offseason to regain full health. This dedication is apparent, as he has been fully participating in the team's offseason program—unlike the previous year when he was limited in his activities.
Head coach Jonathan Gannon, who is entering his second season with the Cardinals, is optimistic about Murray's progress. “Physically and mentally, I mean, he looks damn good. He looks damn good,” Gannon remarked, his confidence in Murray's abilities unmistakable.
Gannon's first year with the Cardinals was marked by the absence of Murray, who was recovering from his injury. Despite the setback, Murray made a strong return, completing 65.7% of his passes, averaging 6.7 yards per attempt, and recording 10 touchdowns against five interceptions. Additionally, he demonstrated his dual-threat capability by rushing for 244 yards and scoring three more touchdowns on the ground. “You know, 'cause 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," Gannon commented on Murray’s return last season. "No however many games we played without him. Couple weeks of practice and then, you're going, 'Let's play football.'”
The offseason has given Murray the opportunity to fine-tune his skills and adapt fully to the team's strategies. Gannon has noticed a significant improvement in both Murray's mental and physical readiness. “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,” Gannon noted.
The positive outlook on Murray's recovery extends beyond his physical condition. Gannon highlighted Murray's leadership qualities and relentless drive to improve. “What I know about the guy, my relationship with him when I got this job: His will to win is extremely high.” He further praised Murray's willingness to make sacrifices for the team's benefit, stating, “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.”
Moreover, Gannon commended Murray's influence both on and off the field. “So, 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 Cardinals have also bolstered their offensive lineup by adding rookie wideout Marvin Harrison Jr., aimed at giving Murray even more options in the passing game. The combination of Murray's return to form and the new addition to the team has generated a sense of excitement and high expectations for the upcoming season.
With the new season on the horizon, the Cardinals' prospects hinge significantly on Murray's ability to perform at his best. Given his progress and the support from the coaching staff, there is an air of optimism surrounding the team's potential. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how Murray and the Cardinals will fare as they launch their quest for success.