5 Key Players to Watch on the Arizona Cardinals

As the Arizona Cardinals look to rebuild and establish a new identity in the 2024 NFL season, there are several key players who will play pivotal roles in the team’s success. Whether it’s a rising star, a veteran leader, or a rookie with potential, these athletes will be instrumental in shaping the future of the Cardinals franchise. Here are five key players to watch this season:

1. Kyler Murray (Quarterback)

Despite the uncertainty around his return from an ACL injury, Kyler Murray remains the cornerstone of the Arizona Cardinals’ offense. After being drafted No. 1 overall in 2019, Murray showed flashes of brilliance, earning Pro Bowl honours in his first few seasons. However, his 2023 campaign was marred by injury, which led to a late-season return that didn’t give fans a full picture of his recovery.

In 2024, Murray’s health and performance will be the most critical factor for the Cardinals. If he’s back to his dynamic, dual-threat self, Murray can elevate the offense with his mobility, arm strength, and playmaking ability. Head coach Jonathan Gannon will need Murray to stay consistent, especially as the team develops younger talent around him. How quickly he finds rhythm with his new weapons will dictate the offense’s success Arizona Cardinals.

Key Stat to Watch: Murray’s ability to stay healthy and avoid turnovers while improving his deep passing accuracy could be a game-changer.

2. Buda Baker (Safety)

Buda Baker is the heart and soul of the Arizona defence. As one of the NFL’s top safeties, Baker is known for his leadership, tackling ability, and range on the field. Over the past few seasons, he has consistently ranked among the top defensive players in the league, earning multiple Pro Bowl selections.

Baker’s versatility allows him to impact the game in various ways: as a centerfielder, a tackler in the box, and as a pass rusher. In 2024, he will need to anchor a Cardinals defence that’s undergoing a rebuild, especially with the potential loss of key veterans. With his ability to read plays and make game-changing stops, Baker is a leader both on and off the field.

Key Stat to Watch: Baker’s forced turnovers and overall impact on the passing game will be crucial for the Cardinals’ defensive success Arizona Cardinals.

3. Zayden Collins (Line backer)

The 2021 first-round pick, Zayden Collins, is entering a critical year in his development. After two seasons of adjusting to the NFL, Collins is expected to step up as the centrepiece of the Cardinals’ line-backer corps. His athleticism and size make him a versatile defender who can cover ground quickly, whether in pass coverage or as a rusher.

In 2024, Collins will be key to the Cardinals’ efforts to improve their run defines and provide stability in the middle of the field. With a new coaching staff under Jonathan Gannon, Collins’ ability to stay disciplined and execute the defensive game plan will be pivotal. If he takes the next step in his development, Collins could emerge as one of the league’s top young line-backers Arizona Cardinals.

Key Stat to Watch: Collins’ tackle count, pass breakups, and ability to disrupt passing lanes will be crucial for Arizona’s defines.

4. Trey McBride (Tight End)

As the Arizona Cardinals look to build a more balanced offensive attack, second-year tight end Trey McBride is poised for a breakout season. McBride showed flashes of his potential as a rookie in 2023, making key catches and becoming a security blanket for whichever quarterback was under centre Arizona Cardinals.

In 2024, McBride’s role in the offense should expand, especially with the team working to develop a solid passing game and keep defences honest. McBride’s combination of size (6’4″, 246 pounds) and athleticism makes him a dangerous mismatch for opposing defenses. If he can develop chemistry with Kyler Murray or whoever is playing quarterback, McBride could become a key weapon in the Cardinals’ passing attack.

Key Stat to Watch: McBride’s receiving yards, touchdowns, and ability to create mismatches in the red zone will be a key factor in Arizona’s offensive evolution Arizona Cardinals.

5. Jalen Thompson (Safety)

Jalen Thompson, another key player in the secondary alongside Buda Baker, is a rising star in his own right. Known for his physical play and excellent coverage skills, Thompson is emerging as one of the top young safeties in the NFL. The Cardinals will rely on Thompson to help secure their secondary in 2024, as they look to build a strong defensive backfield.

Thompson’s ability to cover tight ends, disrupt passing lanes, and make key tackles against the run will be essential as the Cardinals adjust to a new defensive scheme. With Baker on the roster, Thompson has the opportunity to thrive alongside one of the league’s best, forming a formidable safety duo in the backend of the defence Arizona Cardinals.

Key Stat to Watch: Thompson’s interceptions and tackles for loss will be important metrics to track as he continues to emerge as a top-tier safety.

Conclusion

The Arizona Cardinals are in a transition phase as they seek to rebuild and find their identity in 2024. The key players listed above will be central to that process, each one contributing to different facets of the game. From Kyler Murray’s health and performance to the leadership of Buda Baker and the emergence of young talents like Zayden Collins, Trey McBride, and Jalen Thompson, the Cardinals have a mix of veterans and up-and-coming stars who could shape the future of the franchise Arizona Cardinals.

As the season unfolds, these five players will be worth watching, not only for their individual performances but also for their role in helping the Cardinals build a competitive team for years to come Arizona Cardinals.

Additional Key Players to Watch: Depth and Future Stars

While the aforementioned five players are integral to the Arizona Cardinals’ immediate success in 2024, there are several others who could play a significant role in the team’s development. As the Cardinals transition under new leadership and a revamped coaching staff, players who contribute to both the present and the future will be crucial. Let’s explore a few more names to keep an eye on as the season progresses Arizona Cardinals.

6. Paris Johnson Jr. (Offensive Tackle – Rookie)

The Arizona Cardinals made a major investment in their future by selecting offensive tackle Paris Johnson Jr. with the No. 6 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. As a standout at Ohio State, Johnson is regarded as one of the top offensive line prospects in recent years. At 6’6″ and 313 pounds, his combination of size, athleticism, and technique gives him the tools to develop into a franchise cornerstone at left tackle Arizona Cardinals.

In 2024, Johnson will be tasked with protecting the quarterback’s blind side, which is especially important with Kyler Murray’s potential return to full health. The rookie’s success in pass protection and run blocking will be vital to the Cardinals’ ability to execute their offense. If Johnson lives up to his potential, he could provide a solid foundation for the Cardinals’ offensive line for years to come.

Key Stat to Watch: Johnson’s sacks allowed and his ability to create lanes in the run game will be critical metrics as he transitions to the NFL.

7. James Conner (Running Back)

Veteran running back James Conner enters his second season with the Arizona Cardinals, and he remains one of the most reliable and physical backs in the league. In 2023, Conner had a solid season despite the team’s struggles, rushing for over 700 yards and scoring 7 touchdowns while averaging 4.1 yards per carry. The Cardinals will likely lean on Conner again in 2024 as a workhorse back, especially if they continue to adjust their offense around Kyler Murray’s health and the development of younger players Arizona Cardinals.

Conner’s ability to stay healthy and produce in both the running and passing game will be critical for the Cardinals’ offensive balance. While Conner isn’t known for breakaway speed, his toughness, vision, and ability to grind out tough yards make him a steady presence in the backfield. If Conner can stay fresh and productive, he’ll play a key role in keeping the offense moving Arizona Cardinals.

Key Stat to Watch: Conner’s rushing yards, touchdowns, and his role in the passing game (as a check down option) will be key to the Cardinals’ success in 2024.

8. Trey Pipkins III (Offensive Guard)

Another member of the Cardinals’ offensive line who will be key to the team’s success is guard Trey Pipkins III. After being acquired in free agency, Pipkins is expected to help solidify a line that struggled in previous years. The 6’6”, 330-pound veteran brings experience and physicality, and his ability to protect Murray (or any other quarterback) and open up running lanes will be essential Arizona Cardinals.

While not the most high-profile acquisition, Pipkins’ impact could be felt in the trenches, which is where games are often won or lost. His presence could allow the Cardinals to run the ball more effectively and provide better protection for the quarterback, helping to establish a more efficient offensive scheme Arizona Cardinals.

Key Stat to Watch: Pipkins’ effectiveness in pass protection, particularly against elite defensive tackles, will be crucial in keeping the Cardinals’ offense on schedule.

9. Michael Wilson (Wide Receiver – Rookie)

Wide receiver Michael Wilson was drafted by the Cardinals in the 2024 NFL Draft and offers intriguing upside as a playmaking receiver. At 6’2″ and 213 pounds, Wilson has the physicality and route-running ability to be a major contributor in the Cardinals’ passing game. Coming from Stanford, Wilson showed great hands, deep ball skills, and the ability to separate from defenders Arizona Cardinals.

While he’s still adjusting to the NFL, Wilson’s physical profile and football IQ make him a player worth watching. With the Cardinals’ receiving corps in flux, Wilson could quickly become a go-to target for Kyler Murray or whoever is at quarterback. The rookie’s growth and ability to contribute early will be important as the Cardinals work to establish a more potent passing game.

Key Stat to Watch: Wilson’s receiving yards, targets, and ability to stretch the field will be critical in helping the Cardinals’ offense develop.

10. Isaiah Simmons (Line-backer)

Isaiah Simmons, once hailed as a “Swiss Army Knife” defensive weapon, enters his fourth year with the Cardinals with an opportunity to live up to his potential. The former top-10 pick has had an up-and-down career, showcasing incredible athleticism but struggling to find a consistent role. However, under a new defensive coaching staff led by Jonathan Gannon, 2024 could be the year Simmons finally reaches his potential Arizona Cardinals.

Known for his versatility, Simmons can play multiple positions in the linebacking corps, whether covering receivers, defending the run, or rushing the quarterback. His unique skill set could be maximized in a system that utilizes his strengths. If Simmons can stay focused and refined in his technique, he has the potential to become one of the league’s most disruptive defenders Arizona Cardinals.

Key Stat to Watch: Simmons’ tackle numbers, sacks, and pass breakups will help determine whether he can finally be a consistent playmaker Arizona Cardinals.

11. Milo Ellis (Defensive Tackle – Rookie)

Defensive tackle Milo Ellis, another key draft pick for the Cardinals, has the potential to provide immediate impact in the defensive trenches. Ellis is known for his quick first step, strength at the point of attack, and ability to disrupt the opposing offense. As the Cardinals work to improve their defensive line, Ellis’ development will be crucial in creating pressure on opposing quarterbacks and clogging running lanes Arizona Cardinals.

Ellis will have the opportunity to grow under the tutelage of experienced defensive line coaches, and his role will become more prominent as the season progresses. With the Arizona defensive line needing depth and consistency, Ellis could emerge as a foundational piece for the team Arizona Cardinals.

Key Stat to Watch: Ellis’ sacks and tackles for loss will be key indicators of his ability to contribute early and often for the Cardinals Arizona Cardinals.

Conclusion: The Road Ahead

As the Arizona Cardinals enter 2024, they are in the midst of an important transition phase. The success of the team will hinge on the development of both established stars and emerging young talent. Kyler Murray’s health and performance are undoubtedly critical to the team’s future, but the contributions of players like Buda Baker, Zayden Collins, Trey McBride, and the rookies will be just as important in building a competitive squad.

With a new head coach in Jonathan Gannon, the Cardinals’ roster is poised for growth, and these players—whether they are stars or rising talents—will be key in shaping the direction of the franchise. The 2024 season will be a formative year, and fans should be excited to see how these players develop and contribute to Arizona’s long-term vision Arizona Cardinals.

12. J.J. Watt (Defensive End – Veteran Leadership)

Though J.J. Watt has since retired, his legacy continues to influence the Arizona Cardinals defence, both on and off the field. The departure of Watt, a future Hall of Famer, creates a void in leadership and playmaking on the defensive line. With Watt’s exit, it’s crucial that the Cardinals identify who will step into his role as both a leader and a dominant defensive presence. Veteran players like Zach Allen (defensive end) and L.J. Collier (defensive tackle) will need to fill the gap left behind by Watt’s departure.

Zach Allen, in particular, is positioned to take a more prominent role in the Cardinals’ defensive front. Allen’s ability to generate pressure on the quarterback and defend the run will be key to how Arizona’s front four operates in 2024. His performance could go a long way toward determining the success of the team’s pass rush and run defence, especially as the team focuses on rebuilding the defines Arizona Cardinals.

Key Stat to Watch: Allen’s sack totals, pressures, and ability to disrupt offensive schemes will be crucial for Arizona’s defence.

13. Keitel Clark (Cornerback – Rookie)

The Arizona Cardinals’ defensive secondary has seen its fair share of struggles in recent seasons. In 2024, one of the more intriguing rookies to watch is cornerback Keitel Clark. Selected by the Cardinals in the 2024 NFL Draft, Clark brings a blend of speed, physicality, and ball skills that could make him an instant contributor. At 5’10”, Clark is slightly undersized for a corner, but his high football IQ and competitiveness make him a dangerous presence in coverage Arizona Cardinals.

Clark’s development as a starting cornerback could help solidify a secondary that is in need of playmakers. With the Cardinals focused on improving their pass defence and overall defensive balance, Clark’s ability to cover top receivers and generate turnovers could be key to the team’s defensive identity in 2024.

Key Stat to Watch: Clark’s interceptions, pass breakups, and coverage rating will be critical in evaluating his transition to the NFL and his potential to be a lockdown corner for the future Arizona Cardinals.

14. Marquise “Hollywood” Brown (Wide Receiver)

Acquired by the Cardinals in a trade with the Baltimore Ravens in 2022, Marquise “Hollywood” Brown has proven to be a dynamic threat on the outside for Arizona. As the Cardinals look to rebuild and develop an effective offense, Brown’s speed and playmaking ability will be essential for stretching the field and creating mismatches against opposing defences.

Brown has flashed elite deep-threat potential, and if Kyler Murray returns to full health, their chemistry could be one of the most dangerous QB-WR duos in the NFC. The key for Brown in 2024 will be consistency—he has shown the ability to make spectacular plays, but he must become a more reliable target in the short and intermediate passing game as well. His ability to stay healthy will also be an important factor, as injuries have occasionally limited his availability in the past Arizona Cardinals.

Key Stat to Watch: Brown’s yards per catch, receptions, and his ability to score deep touchdowns will be critical for the success of Arizona’s passing attack.

15. Marco Wilson (Cornerback)

Marco Wilson is entering his third season with the Arizona Cardinals, and after a promising start to his career, he will be looked upon to take the next step in 2024. Known for his athleticism and physicality, Wilson has shown potential but has also faced challenges with consistency and penalties. As one of the key cornerbacks on the roster, his development could make or break the secondary, especially in a division where passing attacks are potent Arizona Cardinals.

With the Cardinals investing in rookies like Keitel Clark and veterans like Buda Baker and Jalen Thompson in the secondary, Wilson’s ability to thrive in this system and remain disciplined will be critical. His ball skills and ability to shut down No. 2 or No. 3 wide receivers will help give the Cardinals defence much-needed stability on the back end.

Key Stat to Watch: Wilson’s pass deflections, interceptions, and his ability to limit big plays in coverage will be important for Arizona Cardinals defensive success.

16. Cameron Thomas (Defensive End)

Cameron Thomas, a 2022 third-round pick, is another player with high expectations entering his second season in 2024. Thomas flashed moments of brilliance during his rookie season, demonstrating his ability to get after the quarterback and be disruptive in the backfield. As the Cardinals continue to improve their defensive line, Thomas will need to show more consistency in his pass rush and provide much-needed depth alongside other players like Zach Allen and Milo Ellis Arizona Cardinals.

The defensive line will play an important role in the Cardinals’ ability to contain high-powered offenses, and if Thomas can take a leap in year two, he could solidify himself as a key piece of the defensive front. His development into a more polished pass rusher will be crucial, especially as Arizona looks to build a more aggressive and capable defence.

Key Stat to Watch: Thomas’ sack totals and quarterback pressures will provide insight into his development and ability to contribute to Arizona Cardinals pass rush.

17. Jalen Carter (Defensive Tackle – Rookie)

A high-potential rookie that may not be an immediate impact player but who could develop into a force in Arizona’s defensive line, Jalen Carter is a name to watch. Known for his incredible strength and quickness off the ball, Carter could eventually develop into a dominant force at defensive tackle, improving the team’s ability to stop the run and generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks Arizona Cardinals.

While Carter’s path to immediate playing time may depend on how quickly he adapts to the NFL, his physical tools are undeniable. Should he adjust quickly to the speed of the game and improve his technique, Carter could make a major impact as a rookie and become a building block for the Cardinals’ defence for years to come Arizona Cardinals.

Key Stat to Watch: Carter’s sack count and ability to clog up the running lanes will be critical as he develops into a foundational piece of the defensive line.

Conclusion: A New Era for the Arizona Cardinals

In 2024, the Arizona Cardinals find themselves at the crossroads of a rebuilding effort, but also with a lot of promise. With a blend of established veterans like Kyler Murray, Buda Baker, and James Conner, alongside exciting rookies and young players such as Paris Johnson Jr., Zayden Collins, and Jalen Carter, the future is bright, but the team still faces significant challenges. Whether it’s maintaining a balanced offense, improving the defence, or developing key players into long-term staples, the Cardinals have a lot of potential to surprise in 2024.

With the right development and growth from the players mentioned here, Arizona has a shot to build a competitive team sooner rather than later. Fans will need to keep a close eye on these key players to see how they shape the team’s trajectory and whether they can help lead the franchise back to playoff contention in the near future. The 2024 season will be a pivotal year for the Cardinals, and these key players will be at the forefront of the rebuilding effort Arizona Cardinals.