Wide receiver Devin Duvernay signed a one-year contract with the Arizona Cardinals, the team announced on Mar. 18. Duvernay, known for his achievements as an All-Pro return specialist and two-time Pro Bowler, said he aims to make a significant impact on special teams for the Cardinals.
Duvernay’s signing is notable as the Cardinals look to strengthen their roster ahead of the upcoming season. The team also added veteran tight end Teagan Quitoriano, who played all 17 games for Atlanta last year and has spent much of his career contributing on special teams.
“I help with field position and it’s a field position game,” Duvernay said Wednesday after finalizing his deal. He has averaged 25.4 yards per kick return and 11.8 yards per punt return in his career, including improved averages during playoff appearances with Chicago last season. As a receiver, Duvernay has recorded 1,003 yards on 107 catches but has seen limited receiving opportunities in recent years.
“The receiving opportunity has been less since I have gotten older but I feel it’s still there and I’m always ready for whenever my number is called,” Duvernay said. “I train like I am a starter, practice like I am, study like I am. Whatever I am needed for I’ll be ready.” With Kendrick Bourne expected to be the third wideout behind Michael Wilson and Marvin Harrison Jr., Duvernay could compete for the role previously held by Greg Dortch—who recently agreed to terms with Detroit.
Duvernay also addressed joining Arizona shortly after his cousin Kyler Murray was released by the team and signed with Minnesota. “It’s a little bit (strange), but he has his deal I have my deal,” Duvernay said. “It is what it is.” The two exchanged jerseys at State Farm Stadium following a preseason game in 2022—the same venue where Duvernay will now play home games.
The Arizona Cardinals are recognized as the oldest continuously operating professional football franchise in the United States according to the official website. The team serves the greater Phoenix area and hosts its home games in Glendale, Arizona according to the official website. Competing in the NFC West division, they captured an NFC championship in 2008 according to the official website.