As the Arizona Cardinals approach the new football season, there is a palpable sense of optimism surrounding the team's preparation and the recovery of their star quarterback, Kyler Murray. This year is notably different from the last, when the Cardinals were venturing into their first season under new head coach Jonathan Gannon.
Murray, coming off a significant ACL injury sustained late in the 2022 campaign, has shown remarkable resilience and dedication through his recovery process. Over the past offseason, he has worked rigorously with the team's trainers to regain his full health, an effort that has not gone unnoticed by Gannon and the coaching staff.
Full Participation and Recovery
This offseason marks a significant milestone for Murray, as he has been able to participate fully in the team’s program, marking a stark contrast to the previous year. Reflecting on Murray's return, head coach Jonathan Gannon remarked, "Physically and mentally, I mean, he looks damn good. He looks damn good."
Last season, Murray's return to the field was far from seamless. Despite playing "really good football," he had not taken a snap in Gannon's offensive system until Week 10 against Atlanta. Gannon explains the challenge: "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.'"
Strengthening Performance
Even with the limited preparation, Murray managed to complete 65.7% of his passes, averaging 6.7 yards per attempt. His performance included 10 touchdowns against five interceptions, along with an additional 244 rushing yards and three scores on the ground. These statistics, while impressive under the circumstances, are expected to improve with a full offseason under his belt.
Gannon has observed significant strides in Murray's development, both mentally and physically. "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, highlighting the quarterback's growth.
The Will to Win
Murray's dedication extends beyond physical recovery. He has demonstrated a strong will to win and a commitment to bettering himself and the team. "What I know about the guy, my relationship with him when I got this job: His will to win is extremely high," Gannon emphasized. This drive is a testament to Murray's character and his determination to lead the Cardinals to success.
Gannon also praised Murray's readiness to follow guidance and his unwavering commitment to improvement. "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 said. This adaptability and willingness to grow are crucial attributes for any leader, particularly a quarterback guiding his team through a challenging recovery phase.
A New Offensive Weapon
The Cardinals have bolstered their offensive lineup with the addition of rookie wideout Marvin Harrison Jr. This new weapon in their arsenal is expected to complement Murray's abilities and further enhance the team’s dynamic on the field. The integration of fresh talent and a fully recovered Murray provides a promising outlook for the upcoming season.
Gannon's admiration for Murray extends beyond his performance on 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," Gannon lauded. This praise underscores Murray's role as a pivotal figure in the locker room and his influence on the team's cohesion and morale.
As the new season approaches, the Arizona Cardinals are poised to build on last year's experiences, with a healthy and determined Kyler Murray leading the charge. With a reinforced offensive lineup and the unwavering support of his coach and teammates, Murray’s return sets an optimistic tone for what lies ahead.