While the Arizona Cardinals have undoubtedly improved the talent on their roster for 2020, if they are to make a big jump this coming season, it will come down to how one particular player performs. Yes, that is a lot to put on the shoulder of quarterback Kyler Murray, but it is the truth.
And it is for that reason, he is unsurprisingly the prediction for the Cardinals’ 2020 MVP by NFL.com’s Dan Hanzus.
The Cardinals front office did Murray a serious solid with the acquisition of DeAndre Hopkins, the type of All-Pro wideout who can fast-track the development of a promising young QB. That’s an apt description for Murray, whose strong close to 2019 earned him Offensive Rookie Of The Year honors. We’d feel more confident in Murray taking a Lamarian Year 2 leap had Kyler had the benefit of a traditional offseason, but there’s still plenty of room for unbridled optimism in Arizona. The NFC West is a rugged division, but Murray can make the Cardinals a playoff team right now if he continues on his progression path. Arizona has a special young talent behind center.
Hopkins should have a big season and running back Kenyan Drake could as well. A number of players on defense will be key. However, when it comes to whether or not the Cardinals become a very good team, it will depend on the progression and play of Murray.
Listen to the latest from Cards Wire’s Jess Root on his podcast, Rise Up, See Red. Subscribe on Apple podcasts or Stitcher Radio.
Ep. 268
Ep. 267
