Two weeks into the Arizona Cardinals’ season, the team has yet to solidify its standing in the eyes of fans and analysts. Some see them as potential playoff contenders, while others remain unconvinced. Critics have pointed to the Cardinals’ depth and competitive spirit as key factors that could fuel a surprise playoff run, but there’s no consensus yet. The fan base is just as split, with some holding on to hopes of a wildcard spot and others more skeptical.
After a disappointing follow-up to their 2021 wildcard berth, the Cardinals underwent a major overhaul. Head Coach Kliff Kingsbury was dismissed, and General Manager Steve Keim stepped down, opening the door for new leadership. Monti Ossenfort took over as GM, with Jonathan Gannon stepping in as the new head coach.
In this year’s NFL Draft, the Cardinals made a bold move by selecting Marvin Harrison Jr. with the fourth overall pick, addressing a glaring need for size and depth at wide receiver. Ossenfort’s arrival also brought a wave of roster changes, with many of Keim’s draft picks being replaced by his own selections.
Among the key additions to the roster are Paris Johnson Jr., Michael Wilson, and Will Hernandez, all of whom have made positive impacts over the past year. While a glance at the Cardinals’ 4-13 record might suggest otherwise, this team has a level of talent and competitiveness that could surprise many as the season unfolds.
Last week’s game against the Detroit Lions was a showcase for the Cardinals. Arizona lost 20-13, in a fairly competitive game. Quarterback Kyler Murray, returning from a stellar showing last week, threw for 207 yards and one touchdown, completing 21 of 34 passes. Rookie wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. showed out again, hauling in five receptions for 64 yards and a touchdown showing that he will still be a vital part of the offense.
The Cardinals’ defense wasn’t able to contain the Lions’ offense as much, allowing 373 total yards, but had shown great flashes from linebacker Dennis Gardeck, who recorded four total tackles and one interception, and Jalen Thompson who had six tackles with one of them going for negative yardage. Arizona’s defense wasn’t able to slow down the Lions as much, allowing David Montgomery and star wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown to combine for nearly 200 yards. Clearly, the Cardinals’ defense is still a point of concern that will only get worse if not addressed properly in the season.
As they prepare for next week’s matchup against the Washington Commanders, a homecoming for both rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels and offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury, the Cardinals are left to build on the positive aspects of their performance while addressing key weaknesses. With Murray showing flashes of his prime years form and young talents like Harrison Jr. beginning to emerge, Arizona’s potential remains tantalizing yet still unproven.
