Former Cardinals WR says Kyler Murray leadership issues are ‘nonsense’

Former Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Christian Kirk recently defended quarterback Kyler Murray from the criticism he’s been given by some this offseason.

Since the 2021 season came to an end for Kyler Murray and the Arizona Cardinals, there have been plenty of debates about the quarterback’s ability to lead his team to success.

During the back-and-forth drama between the Cardinals and Murray’s agent, Erik Burkhardt, multiple reports came out that criticized the quarterback’s maturity, loyalty, and leadership qualities.

Those reports have been disputed by Murray and others who have spent a significant amount of time with him during the last few years. Former Arizona wide receiver Christian Kirk is among those that have recently stood up for the quarterback’s ability to be a leader.

Former Arizona Cardinals WR Christian Kirk defends Kyler Murray from critics

Now a member of the Jacksonville Jaguars, Kirk recently went on “The Rich Eisen Show” and he was asked about his thoughts regarding the criticisms Murray has received by some this offseason about his leadership abilities.

Kirk didn’t hold back when talking about his former teammate.

"“I would say it’s nonsense. People can speculate and read into it however they want. But I look at it as passion. The kid’s just passionate and people show their passion in different ways.He just wants to win, so obviously when things go wrong, it’s a little disappointing. But it’s good, for me, in my eyes, to see somebody who cares enough to show passion and wants to turn things around and win the football game. That’s how I see it.”"

It’s not a surprise that the former Cardinals receiver is defending Murray, as the two have had a friendship that began before they even became teammates in Arizona.

Still, Kirk is no longer on the Cardinals’ roster, and he could have easily agreed with those criticizing the quarterback. But he didn’t, and that’s a great sign for Arizona.

Players lead in a variety of different ways and just because a 24-year-old Murray isn’t afraid to wear his emotions on his sleeve, doesn’t make him a bad leader. Just as Kirk mentioned, many would rather see their quarterback upset on the sidelines about a loss than for them to be fake and act like everything is okay.

If you believe Kirk and his comments, then the Cardinals should have nothing to worry about when it comes to Murray being a leader for their team.