Arizona Cardinals coach Jonathan Gannon anticipates that quarterback Kyler Murray will play in Week 2 against the Los Angeles Rams.
Murray unexpectedly appeared on the injury report this week with a knee issue. However, he practiced fully on both Wednesday and Thursday and is expected to maintain that level of participation on Friday.
Gannon dismissed concerns about Murray’s knee, stating, “No, all good.” Murray, who returned from ACL surgery to play the latter half of the 2023 season, did not see any preseason action.
Gannon also mentioned that cornerback Max Melton is still in concussion protocol, while receiver Xavier Weaver, who is dealing with an oblique injury, seems ready to play.
The Cardinals will host the Rams at State Farm Stadium for their home opener after losing to Buffalo in Week 1. Murray completed 21 of 31 passes for 162 yards and one touchdown and led the team with 57 rushing yards.
Reflecting on the Week 1 loss, Murray noted, “I thought we played pretty well. For the most part, we stayed on schedule, but in the second half, we had three three-and-outs and a strip-sack fumble. Those mistakes hurt us, especially on the road against a strong team. We needed to convert those opportunities and score touchdowns in the red zone. We didn’t score enough, which contributed to the loss.”
Despite the defeat, the Cardinals have a chance to start NFC West play with a win, which would be significant for the team.
“It would be huge,” Murray said. “People have their opinions on where we’re going to finish, but we know what we have in the locker room and our mindset. Last weekend was disappointing, but a win this weekend would help us move on and focus forward.”
