The Arizona Cardinals started the season with high hopes, but many felt those goals were exaggerated. At one point, they were on top of the NFC West but ended up finishing third in the division at 8-9. That’s because they started off the season hot and even had a four-game win streak in the middle of the season. However, only going 2-4 over the final six weeks not only bounced them from the playoffs but sent them back to the drawing board for next season. If the Cardinals can bring in a few free agents who can fill in some of the gaps, they could be a formidable team going forward.
QB:
Kyler Murray
With many questions surrounding Kyler Murray this year, his play helped silence some of his critics. Not only did he play all 17 games, Murray also had three 4th quarter comebacks that led his team to wins this season. Murray also had 26 total touchdowns that proved to many that not only can he be a starting quarterback in this league, but also a star to be reckoned with.
RB:
James Conner
James Conner came into the 2024 season with the usual tag that he couldn’t be productive or stay healthy all year. Instead, he did what everyone said he couldn’t, and he did it well. Conner recorded 1,094 rushing yards, 47 receptions, 414 receiving yards, and nine total touchdowns.
WR:
Marvin Harrison Jr.
What was supposed to be a great rookie year for Marvin Harrison Jr. ended up being decent with inconsistent play on the Cardinals’ part. After his week two explosion against the Rams, Harrison only scored six more TDs the rest of the year. What was most alarming was his target-to-reception ratio, which was around 53 percent, which left a lot of production for him and the Cardinals on the field.
TE: Trey McBride
Trey McBride came into the season determined to cement himself amongst the top tight ends in the league. He accomplished that goal by catching 111 passes while only scoring two touchdowns in the final two weeks. Going forward, McBride is going to be a top target in any fantasy football drafts this year.
Defense:
Budda Baker
With the Cardinals defense not having much star power, one thing remains, and that’s Budda Baker. Baker was second to only Zaire Franklin for total tackles this season proving that he’s still one of the best safeties in the league.
Coaching:
Jonathan Gannon
Jonathan Gannon and the Cardinals knew that there were going to be some bumps along the way when he took the head coaching job for them. It’s equated to a 12-22 record so far with another off-season of rebuilding. What is promising is how he was able to improve the Cardinals with only a few new faces on the team last year. If Gannon can continue this trend, he could have one of the most potent offenses in the league if the right pieces fall on his plate.