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PHX Reporter

Tuesday, November 5, 2024

Cardinals aim for more consistent production from wide receivers

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Stefanie Meade Arizona Cardinals Chief Financial Officer | LinkedIn

Stefanie Meade Arizona Cardinals Chief Financial Officer | LinkedIn

Michael Wilson, a wide receiver for the Cardinals and a Stanford alumnus, reflects on the challenges faced by his position group this season. Despite high expectations, the team's wideouts have not yet delivered consistently outstanding performances.

"We are talented across the board and I don't think there has been a question whether this group can get it done," Wilson said. He expressed hope that when they perform at their best, they could be "special as a group." The potential is evident in individual plays from past seasons, yet achieving consistent performance remains elusive.

The spotlight has often been on rookie Marvin Harrison Jr., though both Wilson and Greg Dortch have shown glimpses of promise. Offensive coordinator Drew Petzing remains optimistic about their ability to enhance offensive play with veteran Zay Jones returning. Petzing remarked positively about pushing the ball downfield.

Quarterback Kyler Murray emphasized the importance of involving all playmakers in their game plan. "Personally, I want to get them the ball more," Murray stated, highlighting that good outcomes usually follow when these players handle the ball.

Harrison's health is crucial; he remains in concussion protocol but practiced on a limited basis recently. Communication issues between him and Murray were acknowledged by Murray himself as an area needing improvement.

Wilson recounted similar experiences from his career, encouraging Harrison to focus deliberately on each opportunity with Murray. His advice was grounded in personal lessons learned during challenging times early in his career.

Currently leading among wide receivers is Trey McBride with 28 catches for 271 yards. Wilson follows with 21 catches for 237 yards, while Dortch and Harrison trail closely behind with notable contributions of their own.

Jones' return adds depth to the lineup though his specific role is still undefined. He aims to provide stability within the passing game upon rejoining active play.

Petzing praised what he’s seen from his receivers so far but noted areas where consistency could improve team success further—particularly in winning contested plays against defenders.

Murray reiterated confidence in leaning into passing strategies despite their run-focused identity: "I want to see them go off."

In related team news, head coach Jonathan Gannon mentioned optimism surrounding right tackle Jonah Williams' possible return from injury reserve later this season following knee issues suffered earlier this year—a development which could significantly bolster squad capabilities amid ongoing injury challenges.

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