The Arizona Cardinals have long been a team with potential, but in recent years, they’ve been working diligently to solidify their position in one of the most competitive divisions in the NFL — the NFC West. The NFC West is a division that’s historically been dominated by powerhouse teams, but the Cardinals have shown that they’re no longer content being a mere afterthought in the division’s rankings. With a blend of promising young talent, experienced leadership, and a new sense of direction, the Arizona Cardinals are making their move up the NFC West ladder.
The NFC West division has been the home of some of the NFL’s most successful franchises in recent years. The San Francisco 49ers, Seattle Seahawks, and Los Angeles Rams have all experienced their fair share of success, with multiple playoff appearances, divisional titles, and even a Super Bowl appearance or two. However, the Cardinals have always found themselves looking up at these teams, trying to break through the barrier that has prevented them from being a true contender. In 2023 and beyond, though, the Cardinals seem to be on the verge of changing that narrative.
One of the most notable aspects of the Cardinals’ recent progress is the evolution of their offense. Under the leadership of head coach Kliff Kingsbury and quarterback Kyler Murray, the Cardinals’ offense has steadily improved. Murray, who has become the face of the franchise, is a dynamic quarterback with both the arm and the legs to be a game-changer. His dual-threat abilities make him a constant nightmare for opposing defenses. He’s been developing chemistry with his receivers, and in 2023, the offense has looked more explosive than ever.
One key component to the Cardinals’ success has been their ability to draft and develop talent. The team’s front office, led by general manager Steve Keim, has done a remarkable job of building a roster that balances both experienced veterans and up-and-coming young players. While many teams lean too heavily on one or the other, the Cardinals have managed to create a solid mix of the two. Veterans like DeAndre Hopkins and J.J. Watt have provided the team with leadership and stability, while younger players like Isaiah Simmons, Rondale Moore, and Zaven Collins bring fresh energy and excitement.
The offensive line, which has been a point of weakness for the Cardinals in recent years, has also seen improvements. The team’s commitment to strengthening the line has allowed Murray to have more time to survey the field, giving him the chance to make better decisions. Additionally, the team has invested in the running game, which has often been overshadowed by the passing attack. With the emergence of running back James Conner, the Cardinals now have a balanced offense that can attack both through the air and on the ground. This newfound balance has allowed the offense to be much more unpredictable, keeping defenses on their toes.
Defensively, the Cardinals have undergone significant changes in recent years as well. In 2023, the defense has shown major signs of improvement. The front seven, anchored by veterans like Watt and Chandler Jones, has become one of the more intimidating units in the league. The defensive line has been able to put pressure on opposing quarterbacks, while the linebackers have stepped up in coverage and against the run. The secondary, though still a work in progress, has benefited from a mix of veteran leadership and youthful energy. Players like Byron Murphy Jr. and Budda Baker have emerged as key contributors, and their leadership has been crucial in stabilizing the defense.
One area where the Cardinals have excelled is in their ability to adjust mid-game. Under Kingsbury’s leadership, the team has demonstrated a knack for making the necessary adjustments when things aren’t going according to plan. Whether it’s making quick changes on offense to exploit mismatches or shifting the defensive strategy to slow down an opposing offense, the Cardinals have shown the ability to adapt to any situation. This ability to adjust has made them a more dangerous team, especially in close games where small changes can have a big impact.
The NFC West, however, is no easy division to climb in. The 49ers, Seahawks, and Rams all have championship aspirations, and each team has shown time and again that they can compete at the highest level. However, the Cardinals’ ability to remain competitive against these teams is a testament to the strides they’ve made in recent years. Their matchups against division rivals like the 49ers and Rams have often been tight, with the Cardinals giving as good as they get. These games have been a sign of the team’s growth and have set the stage for future success.
The Cardinals have also been aided by their strong fan base, who have supported the team through thick and thin. The state of Arizona has embraced the team, and the energy at home games has been palpable. In a division like the NFC West, where home-field advantage can be a significant factor, the Cardinals’ fans have created an atmosphere that gives the team a boost when playing in the desert.
The journey to the top of the NFC West won’t be easy, but the Cardinals have positioned themselves well for sustained success. The team has learned from past mistakes, improved key areas of weakness, and made smart moves to build a more complete roster. The development of young players, coupled with the leadership of veterans, has given the team a sense of balance that many other teams in the NFC West envy.
The future looks bright for the Arizona Cardinals. As they continue to grow and develop, they’re becoming a team that no one can afford to underestimate. The rise of the Cardinals is a testament to the hard work of the coaching staff, front office, and players who have all contributed to the team’s newfound success. If the team continues on this trajectory, it won’t be long before the Arizona Cardinals are not just competing for a playoff spot but for an NFC West title and, ultimately, a Super Bowl appearance.
In conclusion, the Arizona Cardinals are undoubtedly making a name for themselves in the NFC West. While the division has traditionally been dominated by teams like the 49ers, Seahawks, and Rams, the Cardinals are making a statement that they belong at the top. With a talented roster, strong leadership, and a competitive spirit, the Arizona Cardinals are on their way to becoming a dominant force in the NFC West, and they’re doing so in a way that could make them a serious contender for years to come. The climb may not be over yet, but the Cardinals are on the right track, and their ascent up the NFC West ladder is just getting started.
