Can Kyler Murray lead the Arizona Cardinals to the playoffs in 2025? After a 2024 injury, all eyes are on the QB and a revamped defense in training camp.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
As the Arizona sun beats down on training camp, one question looms larger than any other: Is this the year Kyler Murray finally puts it all together? After an offseason focused on building a championship-caliber defense, the spotlight now shines intensely on the man with the $230 million contract. The pieces are in place, but the Cardinals' playoff destiny rests squarely on his shoulders.
It's put up or shut up time for the former No. 1 overall pick.
Let's not mince words: this is a pivotal season for Kyler Murray. After a 2024 campaign that saw him post a 3-8 record with 17 touchdowns and 9 turnovers before an ACL tear ended his season, the questions about his consistency and leadership are louder than ever. The front office has held up its end of the bargain, completely overhauling the defense. Now, the offense must match that energy. The success or failure of the 2025 season will be defined by Murray's ability to elevate his game, stay healthy, and prove he can be the elite quarterback his contract suggests he is.
While the offense faces scrutiny, the defense enters camp as a source of major optimism. General Manager Monti Ossenfort executed a masterful defensive rebuild. The 2025 draft class is the crown jewel, with first-round defensive tackle Walter Nolen (Ole Miss) and second-round corner Will Johnson (Michigan) expected to be immediate starters. They're joined by a wave of reinforcements like DE Jordan Burch (Oregon) and LB Cody Simon (Ohio State). What was once a glaring weakness is now projected to be the backbone of this team, a unit built to harass opposing quarterbacks and create turnovers.
On the practice field, the intensity is already palpable. Second-year receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. has been a highlight, showing up with added muscle and consistently winning contested catches against veteran defensive backs. Elsewhere, intriguing roster battles are taking shape. Running back DeeJay Dallas is making a strong case for a spot, showcasing his versatility as both a runner and a return specialist. In a surprising move, Michael Wilson has also been taking reps at punt returner, adding another layer of competition to the special teams unit. These early days are about fundamentals, but the competition is heating up.
The narrative is set. The defense is loaded, and the quarterback is under the microscope. Fans will get their first look at this new-look Cardinals squad during nine open practices before the preseason kicks off on August 9 against the Kansas City Chiefs. The tune-up games, including nationally televised contests against the Broncos (Aug. 16) and Raiders (Aug. 23), will be our first real test. Will the defense live up to the hype? And will Kyler Murray provide the answer everyone is waiting for? The next few weeks will tell us everything.
