Cardinals Depth Chart: Analysis & Predictions

The Arizona Cardinals depth chart is a dynamic blueprint, constantly evolving throughout the offseason and regular season. This guide provides an in-depth look at the projected 2024 Cardinals roster, offering analysis of key position battles and potential breakout players.

Quarterback

• Starter: Kyler Murray
• Backup: Clayton Tune
• Third String: Desmond Ridder

Kyler Murray's return from injury is pivotal. His performance dictates the Cardinals' offensive ceiling. Clayton Tune and Desmond Ridder provide necessary depth, with Tune potentially vying for the primary backup role.

Key Question: Murray's Mobility

Can Kyler Murray regain his pre-injury mobility and explosiveness? His ability to extend plays with his legs is crucial for the Cardinals' offensive success.

Running Back

• Starter: James Conner
• Backup: Michael Carter
• Other Options: Emari Demercado, DeeJay Dallas

James Conner remains the workhorse. Michael Carter offers a change-of-pace option. The Cardinals need to establish a consistent running game to support Murray and control the clock.

Backup Battle: Carter vs. Demercado

Will Michael Carter solidify his role as the primary backup, or will Emari Demercado challenge for those carries? — Mississippi State Football: Game Schedules & News

Wide Receiver

• Starters: Marvin Harrison Jr., Michael Wilson, Greg Dortch
• Key Depth: Zay Jones, Zach Pascal

The addition of Marvin Harrison Jr. is a game-changer. Michael Wilson needs to build on his rookie season. Greg Dortch provides a reliable slot option.

Harrison Jr.'s Impact

How quickly can Marvin Harrison Jr. establish himself as a top target in the NFL? His route-running and hands are already elite.

Tight End

• Starter: Trey McBride
• Backup: Elijah Higgins

Trey McBride is poised for a breakout season. He established himself as a reliable target last year. Elijah Higgins provides depth.

McBride's Receiving Role

Will Trey McBride become one of the NFL's top receiving tight ends? The Cardinals need to utilize his athleticism and route-running ability.

Offensive Line

• Left Tackle: Paris Johnson Jr.
• Left Guard: TBD
• Center: Hjalte Froholdt
• Right Guard: TBD
• Right Tackle: Jonah Williams

The offensive line is a work in progress. The Cardinals need to find stability at the guard positions. Paris Johnson Jr. and Jonah Williams are the anchors at tackle.

Guard Competition

Who will win the starting guard spots? Multiple players are competing for those roles, and their performance will significantly impact the Cardinals' offensive line.

Defensive Line

• Starters: L.J. Collier, Bilal Nichols, Zaven Collins
• Key Depth: Dante Stills, Justin Ellis

The Cardinals are revamping their defensive line. L.J. Collier and Bilal Nichols are key additions. Zaven Collins transitions to a full-time defensive end role.

Collins' Transition

How effectively will Zaven Collins adapt to his new role as a defensive end? His athleticism and versatility could be a major asset.

Linebacker

• Inside Linebackers: Kyzir White, Krys Barnes
• Outside Linebackers: Dennis Gardeck, BJ Ojulari

Kyzir White brings experience and leadership to the linebacker corps. Dennis Gardeck is a proven pass rusher. BJ Ojulari needs to take a step forward in his development.

Ojulari's Development

Will BJ Ojulari emerge as a consistent pass-rushing threat? The Cardinals need him to contribute more significantly in his second season.

Cornerback

• Starters: Sean Murphy-Bunting, Starling Thomas V
• Nickel Corner: Jalen Thompson

The cornerback position has been remade. Sean Murphy-Bunting brings experience. Starling Thomas V will compete for playing time. — Bucks Vs. Blazers: A Complete Game Timeline

Cornerback Consistency

Can the Cardinals find consistent performance from their cornerback group? This is a key question mark for the defense.

Safety

• Starters: Budda Baker, Jalen Thompson

Budda Baker remains the anchor of the secondary. Jalen Thompson provides a versatile presence.

Baker's Impact

How much impact will Budda Baker have this year? He is coming off an injury but is still the leader of the defense.

Special Teams

• Kicker: Matt Prater
• Punter: Blake Gillikin
• Long Snapper: Joe Fortunato

The Cardinals have stability in their kicking game with Matt Prater. Blake Gillikin takes over at punter. — Days Until November 29: Countdown Guide

FAQ

Who is the Cardinals starting quarterback?

The Cardinals' starting quarterback is Kyler Murray, assuming he is healthy. His performance will be critical to the team's success in 2024.

Who are the Cardinals' key offensive players?

Key offensive players include quarterback Kyler Murray, running back James Conner, wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., and tight end Trey McBride.

What are the Cardinals' biggest weaknesses?

The Cardinals' biggest weaknesses are the offensive line and cornerback. Addressing these positions is crucial for improvement.

What are the Cardinals' strengths?

The Cardinals' strengths include their quarterback, Kyler Murray, running back James Conner and the potential of their passing game with the addition of rookie Marvin Harrison Jr.

What is the Cardinals' projected record for 2024?

Predicting the Cardinals' exact record is difficult, but most analysts project them to improve on their 2023 performance, potentially winning 6-8 games.

Conclusion

The Cardinals' depth chart is undergoing significant changes. The team is hoping for improvement in key areas and will rely on key players to step up and contribute. The development of young players and the performance of key veterans will determine the Cardinals' success in 2024. Stay tuned for updates and further analysis as the season progresses.

[Related Topics: NFL Depth Charts, Arizona Cardinals News, NFL Predictions]