With the dawn of the 2024 NFL season, the Arizona Cardinals find themselves brimming with optimism, propelled by the return of quarterback Kyler Murray to full health and the notable addition of wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr.
Trevor Sikkema of Pro Football Focus has identified Murray, Harrison, and safety Budda Baker as the Cardinals’ standout performers heading into the new season, as the team endeavors to improve upon their 4-13 record from the previous year.
Kyler Murray’s Outlook for 2024:
Entering his sixth season, Murray enters the fray fully recovered from a knee injury that sidelined him for the initial nine games of the previous campaign. Despite the setback, Murray showcased his prowess in the eight games he played, amassing 1,799 passing yards and 10 touchdowns. His dynamic playmaking abilities were further evidenced by his 244 rushing yards and three rushing touchdowns, steering the Cardinals to a commendable 3-5 record in the latter half of the season after a challenging start.
Budda Baker’s Prospects for 2024:
Safety Budda Baker aims to rebound from a somewhat subdued 2023 season, marked by a five-game absence due to a hamstring injury. Despite the setback, Baker’s impact remained palpable, tallying 87 total tackles over 12 games, albeit without an interception for the first time since 2020. Notwithstanding, his contributions earned him a sixth Pro Bowl selection, underscoring his significance within the Cardinals’ defensive framework.
Marvin Harrison Jr.’s Anticipation for 2024:
As the Cardinals’ No. 4 overall pick, Marvin Harrison Jr. enters the NFL landscape poised to assume a pivotal role as a primary target for Murray and the team’s offensive arsenal. Harrison’s stellar collegiate campaign at Ohio State, highlighted by 67 receptions, 1,211 receiving yards, and an impressive 15 touchdowns, firmly established him as a formidable force in the passing game. Garnering accolades such as the Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year and a finalist nod for the 2023 Heisman Trophy, Harrison brings a blend of talent and potential that bodes well for the Cardinals’ offensive aspirations.
With the collective talent and potential of Murray, Baker, and Harrison, the Cardinals aim to chart a course toward success in the 2024 season, fueled by renewed vigor and determination.
