The Arizona Cardinals offseason has been anything but quiet, as drama has unfolded around star quarterback Kyler Murray. First, Murray seemed to be sending the franchise a message with his actions on social media, as he basically erased everything Cardinals-related from his pages. Then, Murray, through his agent, expressed a desire for a new contract, making it clear that he is seeking long-term stability, while adding that he'd like to remain with Arizona. Murray's actions are putting the Cardinals in a tough spot. They can either opt to kick the can down the road via a franchise tag-type situation, or they can pay up and offer an extension to Murray. The 24-year-old has seemingly put an end to the trade rumors that have swirled around him this offseason, though that doesn't mean he's going to back off of his desire for an extension. That said, here are two reasons why the Cardinals must offer Murray a new contract despite the recent drama.
2 Reasons Why The Cardinals Must Extend Kyler Murray
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2. Murray fits the mold of the modern-day QB
Kyler Murray is about as close to a perfect example of the NFL's modern-day quarterback. Murray can pass, having thrown for at least 24 touchdowns in each of the last two campaigns- he had 24 in just 14 contests this year. The Cardinals star can run, having rushed for over 400 yards and at least four touchdowns in all three years since he entered the league. In short, Murray is dynamic when on the move, forcing defenses to commit to playing down field or coming up to attempt to eliminate his running lanes. If Arizona wants a franchise quarterback for the long-term, there's no better option than Murray, both in terms of fit for the modern game and age. Two of the quarterbacks in the NFC South- Russell Wilson and Matthew Stafford- are still playing at a high level but are past the age of 30. The Cardinals could potentially be the favorites in the division for years to come if they play this thing right. First, they must extend Murray this offseason.
1. Murray deserves a new contract
Kyler Murray may face some heat for the fact that he is seemingly telling the franchise to pay up to retain his services after a less-than-stellar end to the season. However, Murray's numbers are those of a player on an upward trajectory. His passer rating and average yards per pass attempt have steadily improved each year. If not for an ankle injury, Murray surely would have set a new career-high in touchdown passes. Perhaps most importantly, the Cardinals' records have improved each season with Murray as the starter. The bottom line is, Murray is getting better every year and deserves a pay raise for his efforts. The Cardinals star isn't being selfish by wanting to be paid like a top quarterback, as he seems to be blossoming into just that in front of the franchise's very eyes. Arizona should open up their wallets and write up a contract extension for Murray this offseason. If they don't, they could end up regretting it down the road.
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