Why Cardinals QB Kyler Murray is one of most fascinating NFL players in 2025

Jones on what Murray means to Cardinals:

“Fully healthy for the first time in four seasons, Murray played some of his best ball down the stretch of last season and looked more like the player the Cardinals thought they were getting when they drafted him No. 1 in 2019. Another year with head coach Jonathan Gannon and offensive coordinator Drew Petzing also factored into Murray’s strong finish. Now entering his third season in the same system and with no rehab to slow his offseason preparation, Murray could take a big leap and position the Cardinals to make noise in a wide-open NFC West.”

Murray is entering his second full season with offensive coordinator Drew Petzing being the play caller for the offense. The pair led Arizona’s offense to be the 11th scoring offense (23.5), 11th in yards per game (358.2), 7th in yards per play (5.9) and 8th in 3rd down conversion percentage (43.01%).

A massive reason for the offensive success has been the consistent rushing attack. The Cardinals were second in yards per rush last year and have been a top five rushing team under Petzing. Much of the credit can be given to running back James Conner and Petzing scheme, but Murray’s return added another layer to the run game.

The former first overall pick’s mobility is one of his greatest strengths avoiding pressure and using his legs to pick up massive chunk plays. Murray might never be a 4,000-yard passer, but under Petzing’s offense, that might not be needed as his legs are his most valuable asset.

The offense can easily be a top-1o offense in 2025, if Murray continues his rise back to being a Pro-Bowl quarterback. Murray’s return to that form is the last piece for Arizona to make a playoff push next season.