As the Arizona Cardinals gear up for their new season, there is a palpable sense of optimism surrounding their preparation and the recovery of star quarterback Kyler Murray.
This period last year marked the beginning of a new era for the Cardinals under the leadership of head coach Jonathan Gannon. However, the team's outlook was tempered by the absence of Murray, who was sidelined due to an ACL injury he sustained late in the 2022 campaign. The injury cast a shadow of uncertainty over the team's prospects.
A Tireless Recovery
Throughout the offseason, Murray's focus was unyielding as he worked tirelessly with the Cardinals' trainers to regain his full health. Unlike the previous offseason, this year Murray has been able to participate fully in the team's programs, a testament to his diligent rehabilitation efforts.
Full Participation in Offseason Program
This renewed involvement has given head coach Jonathan Gannon a front-row seat to witness Murray's progress firsthand. “Physically and mentally, I mean, he looks damn good. He looks damn good,” Gannon remarked, highlighting the quarterback's impressive comeback.
Gannon emphasized the challenges Murray faced upon his return. “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. No however many games we played without him. Couple weeks of practice and then, you're going, 'Let's play football.’”
Performance Metrics
Despite these obstacles, Murray made significant contributions last season. Upon returning from his injury, he completed an impressive 65.7% of his passes, averaging 6.7 yards per attempt. His performance included 10 touchdowns against just five interceptions, complemented by 244 rushing yards and three additional scores on the ground.
Mentally and Physically Leaps Ahead
Gannon noted the marked improvement in 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,” he stated, shedding light on the quarterback's elevated preparedness.
A Commitment to Improvement
One of the driving forces behind Murray's resurgence is his unwavering will to win. Gannon praised his star quarterback's determination and dedication. “What I know about the guy, my relationship with him when I got this job: His will to win is extremely high. 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," Gannon explained.
Gannon's admiration for Murray extends beyond 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,” he enthused, spotlighting Murray's leadership qualities.
In a bid to bolster their offensive strengths, the Cardinals have added rookie wideout Marvin Harrison Jr. to their ranks. This strategic move is poised to complement Murray's dynamic playstyle and potentially elevate the team's offensive production.
As the new season draws near, the Arizona Cardinals' camp is buzzing with anticipation. With Kyler Murray's determined recovery and full participation in the offseason program, paired with strategic additions to their roster, the Cardinals and their fans have ample reason to look forward to what lies ahead.