The Arizona Cardinals have reached the halfway point of the 2023-2024 NFL season. Coming off a disappointing late-season collapse last year after a 7-0 start, the Cardinals hoped for redemption this season behind third-year quarterback Kyler Murray.
However, multiple injuries and inconsistent play have led to another underwhelming 4-8 start. As the Cardinals regroup during the Week 14 bye, let’s recap the story so far and discuss what to watch for in the second half.
Offseason of High Hopes
Despite blowing a playoff spot last season, hopes were high for the Cardinals entering 2023. They acquired elite receiver DeAndre Hopkins in a blockbuster trade and locked down quarterback Kyler Murray with a 5-year, $230 million contract extension.
After just missing the playoffs in 2022, pundits predicted Arizona would contend this year based on Murray’s continued development and the Hopkins addition. An NFC West crown seemed in reach.
Injuries Strike Again
The Cardinals’ prospects quickly faded once the games began. Star receiver DeAndre Hopkins was suspended 6 games for PEDs. Oft-injured center Rodney Hudson suffered a knee sprain in Week 1.
Defensive staple J.J. Watt reinjured his shoulder and landed on IR. Injuries to key starters kept mounting, creating instability for Arizona. Even Kyler Murray himself missed games with a sore hamstring.
Kliff Kingsbury Back on the Hot Seat
The pressure is rising on fourth-year head coach Kliff Kingsbury as the losses pile up. Despite an offensive background, the Cardinals have struggled to find consistency on that side of the ball amidst personnel volatility.
Questionable game management, including timeout usage and aggressive 4th down decisions, has also put Kingsbury in the crosshairs of critics. Without a strong second half, his job may be in jeopardy.
Kyler Murray’s Make-or-Break Year?
Kyler Murray isn’t free of scrutiny either following his lucrative contract extension. While flashes of brilliance persist, Murray’s decision-making and durability remain issues four seasons in.
If he fails to finish the year strong, questions will grow about whether Murray can truly lead a contender. His career hangs in the balance down the stretch.
Glimmer of Hope in NFC West
At 4-8, claiming a Wild Card spot remains improbable but not impossible for the Cardinals. The 49ers lead the NFC West at 8-4, but both the Seahawks and Rams hover around .500 and have shown vulnerabilities.
If Arizona can string together some wins and get help down the stretch, swiping a playoff berth isn’t out of the question. Crazier things have happened in the parity-driven NFL.
Final Stretch Carries Weight
Arizona returns from the bye facing the Patriots, Broncos, Buccaneers, and 49ers to end the regular season. Every game is virtually must-win with the postseason in reach.
But the storylines stretch far beyond just 2023. How Kingsbury and Murray finish this rocky year may determine their longer-term futures guiding the Cardinals. Stay tuned for this saga’s second act!
