Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray delivered a rare address to his teammates on the eve of the season finale, marking his growing leadership role within the team. Although Murray is typically more introverted, his message was clear: time is not infinite. This sentiment resonates as the Cardinals wrapped up their 2023 season with an 8-9 record, most recently bolstered by a decisive 47-24 victory over the San Francisco 49ers. The season saw Arizona improve by four wins compared to the previous year, reflecting progress under a new coaching regime.
Despite the gains, 2023 seems to linger as a lost opportunity for the franchise. With the team sitting at 6-4 and on the cusp of playoff contention following their bye week, the Cardinals suffered through a disappointing slump, ending the year by losing five of their last seven matchups. Murray reflected on the season, stating, "I feel like we’re on the right track... We’ve got to execute it all. What seems like a little game back in October means a lot. You let a couple slip, and you look up at the end of the season and you’re two games away." This late-season collapse now puts immense pressure on both Murray and Gannon to turn the ship around heading toward the 2024 season.
For Murray, who has experienced only one postseason appearance during his six-year NFL career—a disappointing blowout against the Los Angeles Rams—the stakes are high. His performance will hinge on his ability to lead effectively and make pivotal plays, with many questioning if he and the Cardinals can achieve postseason success together. Coach Gannon has consistently voiced his support, emphasizing, "He is a competitor, and we’re going to go where he takes us. I know it." Murray, under contract until 2028, recognizes the urgency. "I don’t want to ever get too far away from the game just because this is my life," he added.
Another highlight for the Cardinals this season was the emergence of tight end Trey McBride. The second-year player secured his first Pro Bowl accolade after recording 111 receptions for 1,146 yards. Reflecting on his success, McBride said, "Obviously, I’m very proud of myself but I just needed a chance. Most important, I’m happy to be healthy. For most of these guys, health is most important. We didn’t get to where we wanted to be, so I’m not super proud of it, but I think we’re building the right things." His progression signals potential for continued success moving forward.
Wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., the fourth overall pick from the previous draft, was also impressive, finishing with 62 catches, 885 yards, and tying the franchise rookie record with eight touchdowns. Harrison's final game showcased his dynamic pairing with Murray, culminating in the season's last passing touchdown – a 12-yard connection. Murray expressed optimism about their developing chemistry: "He’s only going to get bigger and we’re only going to get bigger. I’m excited." Yet, improvement areas exist; Harrison faced difficulties against top-tier cornerbacks, and Gannon earlier stressed the need for him to adopt a more physical approach.
Defensively, many experts expected the Cardinals to struggle, yet coordinator Nick Rallis produced solid results, allowing the team to finish mid-pack in several major statistical categories. Arizona's secondary proved to be particularly resilient, highlighted by the capabilities of safety Budda Baker and young talents like Garrett Williams and Max Melton. Still, there’s recognition of the necessity for greater depth—particularly on the defensive line. General manager Monti Ossenfort is likely to be active during the upcoming free agency period to fortify the roster.
Looking forward, the Cardinals hold the No. 16 pick in the NFL Draft, offering them strategic opportunities to build on their successes. With Murray and Gannon under the spotlight next year, there's hope the team will constructively use this offseason to address shortcomings, aim for playoff aspirations, and establish a competitive culture moving toward the 2025 season.