The Arizona Cardinals have wrapped up their 2024 NFL season with notable performances and roster moves, concluding with an 8-9 record. While they began the season with promise, the team’s late fade from playoff contention reflects the challenges they will need to address heading toward 2025.
Despite finishing with four more wins than the previous season, the Cardinals are left processing what could have been. After holding a 6-4 record entering their mid-November bye week, they lost five of their last seven games, derailing what seemed like a promising season. Quarterback Kyler Murray, who normally keeps to himself, took the unusual step of addressing his teammates the day before the final game against the San Francisco 49ers. His message struck at the heart of their predicament: time is limited.
“I feel like we’re on the right track,” Murray stated after the 47-24 triumph against the 49ers, adding, “It just …comes down to we’ve got to execute.” His frustration over close games slipped away earlier in the season hung heavy as he reflected on missed opportunities. This mixed bag of emotions leaves both Murray and head coach Jonathan Gannon under pressure to push the team back to the playoffs next fall, with Murray's future with the team possibly hanging in the balance.
Gannon has been firmly supportive of Murray, asserting, “He is a competitor and we’re going to go where he takes us.” Alongside Murray, the Cardinals hope to build on key personnel decisions made already, including extending contracts for safety Budda Baker and running back James Conner. With the roster maturing and stars like tight end Trey McBride and receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. highlighting their future, the Cardinals are intent on constructing a competitive team.
McBride shined this season, earning his first Pro Bowl selection after tallying 111 receptions for 1,146 yards. The two-time Pro Bowler shared his thoughts on the season, highlighting, “I just needed a chance.” His commitment to health and improvement is echoed by both teammates and fans as they look for more next year. Meanwhile, rookie sensation Harrison finished strong with 62 catches for 885 yards, helping the Cardinals’ offense with his eight touchdowns—tying the franchise record for rookies.
One of the notable changes the Cardinals made during their last game was featuring Greg Dortch more heavily—this proved to be effective. He demonstrated explosive performance potential, catching all four of his targets during the game, including two touchdowns.
The emergence of Dortch offers some hope moving toward 2025. “Dortch, who sat at No. 3 on the wide receiver depth chart for most of the season, saw more opportunities with running back James Conner inactive.” His contributions ignited the fanbase, allowing them to leave the season on a high note.
While offensive sparks emerged, the team’s defense was also surprisingly resilient, achieving middle-of-the-pack status across major categories. Under coordinator Nick Rallis, the defensive unit produced results amid speculation it would struggle. Yet, the Cardinals may need to address gaps, particularly on the defensive line, as they seek to bolster their roster. General manager Monti Ossenfort is expected to actively pursue free agents to enrich their defense this offseason.
With the NFL Draft on the horizon, the Cardinals hold the 16th overall pick, allowing the potential for even more strategic enhancements. There’s plenty of room for improvement, yet the groundwork has been laid for the Cardinals to make significant strides as they move toward the upcoming season.
Despite some setbacks, the spirit of improvement remains strong. Murray emphasized, “I don’t want to ever get too far away from the game just because this is my life.” This determination hints at the players’ commitment to returning to form and striving for playoff contention.
For both Gannon's coaching strategy and Murray's leadership on the field, bringing everything together will be pivotal. Next season stands as both a test of resolve and opportunity for the franchise as they continue developing their roster for hopeful success, relying on established talents, new recruits, and the fresh momentum gained from this season's strong finish.