Arizona Cardinals quarterback utilizing his running ability

The Arizona Cardinals offensive unit is beginning to benefit greatly from Kyler Murray’s ability to run with the football

For quite some time, the Arizona Cardinals had steered clear of the idea of a running quarterback. Individuals like Josh Rosen, Carson Palmer, Kurt Warner and Matt Leinart rarely did damage to opposing defenses with their legs. In fact, the last Cards signal-caller with that kind of ability was Jake “The Snake” Plummer, who left the organization back in 2003.

When the Arizona front office used this year’s first-overall draft pick on Kyler Murray, they knew they were getting a passer who can run. Not just a runner, mind you. Murray has certainly proven through the Cardinals first five games that a strong arm is a vital part of his arsenal as well.

Despite his passing ability, it was hard to ignore what Murray had accomplished on the ground at the University of Oklahoma. In 14 appearances last season, the 2018 Heisman Trophy recipient tallied 1,001 rushing yards on 140 carries. Murray also scored 12 times on the ground, an added bonus to the 42 touchdowns he recorded through the air for the Sooners.

The new leader of the Cards offense failed to demonstrate those rushing skills during his first two NFL contests. Murray totaled just 13 yards on the ground against the Detroit Lions on opening day. In a week two matchup with the Baltimore Ravens, the youngster carried the rock three times for a measly four yards.

Murray got the running aspect of his game going in week three, when the 5’10, 205 pounder rumbled for 69 yards on eight totes versus the Carolina Panthers. The following Sunday against the Seattle Seahawks, Murray ran for 27 yards and scored the first rushing touchdown of his professional career. The 22-year old was especially spectacular with his legs last weekend, racking up 93 yards on the ground and his second rushing score as a pro versus the Cincinnati Bengals.

The speedy Murray is showcasing an element of the Arizona offense that had been missing for years. Having the ability to make something out of nothing may be the rookie’s greatest asset. The book is still out on Murray, but the damage he can do with his legs is something that not every quarterback in the league can provide.