David Chao, MD
2 min read • August 07, 2023
Posted in
Kyler Murray, the fifth-year Arizona Cardinals quarterback, remains on the PUP list and has not practiced with the team during training camp.
Murray is not yet eight months into recovery for his torn right knee ACL and it remains to be seen whether he will start the year on IR, PUP or be on the active roster.
As our panel of doctors have detailed since his ACL tear, it will be difficult for Murray to be elusive if he returns anytime before the second half of the season.
ACL recoveries for skill position players typically have longer timelines because of the ACL’s importance with decelerating and cutting.
If the former Oklahoma quarterback plays early in the season, it will be from the pocket other than his typical scrambling style.
Murray has averaged at least 30 rushing yards per game in his four NFL seasons and rushed for a combined 23 touchdowns across those seasons.
This year, the new regime in Arizona will have to determine if it’s worth playing him at less than 100% for a franchise that is clearly in a transition period.
Colt McCoy, a 13-year veteran with over 35 starts, has been taking the main reps in training camp and figures to be the Week 1 starter, barring a dramatic improvement in Murray’s recovery progress.
Clayon Tune and David Blough are also options to pass the ball.
Murray carries a season SIC score of 38, indicating that he will have roughly 38% of his fantasy value in a healthy season.
In 11 games last season, Murray averaged 215.3 passing yards per game with 14 passing touchdowns and 7 interceptions. He also rushed for 418 yards and 3 touchdowns.
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The Cardinals are 6-point underdogs on the road against the Commanders in Week 1.
Written by David Chao, MD
