Kyler Murray’s Journey to Redemption
Kyler Murray is preparing for his seventh NFL season with a renewed sense of purpose. Despite his impressive individual talents, Murray has yet to secure a playoff win, a goal that has eluded the Arizona Cardinals since 2015. The pressure is palpable, but he has a staunch advocate in head coach Jonathan Gannon, who has been unwavering in his support since taking the helm in 2023. Gannon recently reiterated his faith in Murray during the Scouting Combine, attributing the team’s struggles to a combination of factors, including his own coaching and the overall team performance, while forecasting a breakout 2025 season for his quarterback.
A Team Effort
"It’s not the quarterback, it’s the whole team. Myself, it’s the whole team," Gannon emphasized when discussing the Cardinals’ 2-5 finish last season. This statement underscores the coach’s belief that Murray’s potential is not the issue; rather, it is the collective effort of the team that needs to improve. Gannon’s willingness to take responsibility and focus on the broader picture is a positive sign for the Cardinals’ organizational culture. It suggests a cohesive approach to addressing the team’s shortcomings, which is crucial for long-term success.
Injuries and Adaptation
Murray’s 2022 season was cut short by a torn ACL, which he suffered on December 12. This injury not only sidelined him for the remainder of the year but also forced him to alter his playing style in the subsequent season. His rushing attempts per game dropped to a career-low of 4.6, a significant change from his usual dual-threat approach. Gannon acknowledged this shift and explained that the team still emphasizes the quarterback run game, though its frequency can vary from game to game. "Some games more than others he extends and runs. I like when he extends and throws it down the field over people’s heads, but there’s no doubt he has that element to his game, and when he uses it, if he uses it at the appropriate time, he can kill you," Gannon said. This adaptation showcases Murray’s resilience and the coaching staff’s ability to adjust strategies to protect and utilize their star player effectively.
A Proven Performer
Murray’s talent and potential are undeniable. He has been selected to the Pro Bowl twice, in 2020 and 2021, a testament to his skill and impact on the field. Despite these accolades, his career record stands at 36-45-1, and his lone playoff appearance was marred by one of his worst performances. The knockout loss in the 2021 Wild Card game, where he threw three interceptions and had a passer rating of just 39.6, remains a sore point. However, Gannon’s confidence in Murray suggests that the quarterback is capable of bouncing back and leading the team to greater heights.
The Weight of Expectation
The pressure on Murray to deliver a playoff win has never been greater. Fans and analysts alike are keen to see if he can translate his individual success into team victories. The Cardinals have invested heavily in their offense, and Murray’s performance will be a key factor in the team’s success. Gannon’s belief in Murray’s abilities is crucial in this context, as it can help alleviate some of the external pressures and create a more supportive environment for the quarterback to thrive. This trust from the head coach is a significant boost for Murray, who will be looking to prove his detractors wrong in the upcoming season.
Looking Forward to 2025
As the 2025 season approaches, the Cardinals and their fans are filled with optimism. Gannon’s assertion that Murray will have "a hell of a year" is more than just positive talk; it is a reflection of the hard work and preparation the team is putting in to turn things around. Murray, known for his dynamic playmaking and leadership, is poised to make a strong comeback. With a supportive coaching staff and a growing roster of talented players, the stage is set for Murray to finally break through and lead the Cardinals to their long-awaited playoff victory. The journey to redemption is underway, and the entire organization is rallying behind their quarterback to achieve this goal.
