The Arizona Cardinals have decided not to play QB Kyler Murray in their preseason finale against the Denver Broncos, instead focusing on a final showdown between Clayton Tune and Desmond Ridder for the backup quarterback position. Each player offers unique strengths, making the upcoming game crucial in determining who secures the QB2 spot.
Clayton Tune has posted stronger statistics than Desmond Ridder and performed better during training camp. However, Ridder’s playing style aligns more closely with that of Kyler Murray, which could be a decisive factor.
Tune is set to start against the Broncos this weekend, with Ridder following. Despite this arrangement, the Cardinals coaching staff insists that no decision has been made yet.
“I know people are going to make a big deal of who starts the game, but I don’t see it that way,” said offensive coordinator Drew Petzing. “Competition at every position is going to come down to final cuts. That’s the reality of training camp. I expect to see those guys play at a high level regardless of who is in there first.”
The Cardinals are taking this QB battle very seriously. Ideally, a backup quarterback wouldn’t see much action, but the coaching staff understands the harsh realities of the NFL.
“The reality of the NFL game is that guys get hurt,” Petzing acknowledged. “It’s unfortunate but it’s real. The quarterback position had what, 60-plus starters last year? You want everyone on that roster, if they have a jersey, to be ready to go, ready to give us the best chance to win.”
The Cardinals are hopeful they can rely on Kyler Murray throughout the 2024 season. The former first overall pick is aiming for a comeback after an ACL tear in 2022 slowed his career.
Head coach Jonathan Gannon has recently praised Murray’s resilience and growth as he prepares for the regular season.
“From a mental and physical standpoint, where he is now compared to when he returned last year, he’s made significant strides,” Gannon said on Mad Dog Sports Radio, per NFL.com. “His will to win is extremely high, and if you lay out what’s needed for him to improve, he’s 1,000 percent committed. I love the guy because he’s done everything I’ve asked of him and more. He’s been a phenomenal leader on and off the field—not just with the offense, but with the entire team.”
After a challenging 2023 season that saw the Cardinals start 1-8, they are eager to turn things around in 2024. Arizona will kick off the regular season on the road against Buffalo
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