As the Arizona Cardinals gear up for their new season, optimism surrounds the preparation and recovery of quarterback Kyler Murray. The young quarterback’s journey back from an ACL injury, which sidelined him late in the 2022 campaign, has been nothing short of remarkable.
A Year of Recovery and Dedication
Last season marked the beginning of the Cardinals' journey under the guidance of new head coach Jonathan Gannon. Murray, unfortunately, couldn’t participate fully due to his injury. Throughout the offseason, he worked meticulously with the team's trainers to regain his full health. This offseason has been different, as Murray has been able to participate fully in the program, a fact that has already paid dividends in his performance and conditioning.
Reflecting on Murray's performance after his return last season, the numbers were promising. He completed 65.7% of his passes with an average of 6.7 yards per attempt. This included ten touchdowns against five interceptions, and he also showcased his dual-threat capability with 244 rushing yards and three rushing touchdowns.
A Positive Review from the Head Coach
Head coach Jonathan Gannon has been effusive in his praise for Murray’s progress. “Physically and mentally, I mean, he looks damn good. He looks damn good,” Gannon remarked, highlighting the strides Murray has made in his recovery.
Gannon went on to discuss the challenges and triumphs of Murray’s comeback last season: “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.'”
It's evident that Gannon holds Murray in high regard and believes that the quarterback is poised to make significant strides this season. “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,” added Gannon.
An Exemplary Leader
Beyond his physical abilities, Murray’s leadership has also garnered praise. “What I know about the guy, my relationship with him when I got this job: His will to win is extremely high,” Gannon noted. “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.”
The bond between the head coach and his quarterback is evident. “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 said.
Bolstering the Offense
As the Cardinals look to the season ahead, they've made strategic additions to their roster. Notably, rookie wideout Marvin Harrison Jr. joins the team, providing Murray with an exciting new target and the offense with additional firepower.
With Murray’s recovery and full participation in the offseason program, combined with new talent, the Arizona Cardinals are filled with anticipation. As they prepare to launch their season, all eyes will be on Murray to lead them to new heights.
The journey ahead will undoubtedly have its challenges, but with Murray's physical readiness and his unwavering commitment to the team's success, the optimism in Arizona is well-founded. The upcoming season promises to be an exciting chapter in the Cardinals' history with Kyler Murray playing a pivotal role in their quest for victory.