Arizona Cardinals Quarterback Cleared for Workouts

The Arizona Cardinals have done a lot to right the ship after a disappointing 2022 season. Still, their success in 2023 will depend entirely on the health of their franchise quarterback Kyler Murray, who tore his ACL this past December. Lucky for them, Murray appears to be progressing just fine. The two-time Pro Bowler shared footage of him working out only 13 weeks removed from surgery.

Ready for the Kyler comeback 🔥 (via @k1) pic.twitter.com/bCnSOKHzob
— NFL (@NFL) April 7, 2023

Murray is not currently expected to be ready for the season opener, but it's a positive sign that he's on his feet and getting meaningful strength training in. It wouldn't be completely unprecedented for Murray to be available in early September: Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers played 16 games in the 2008 regular season after tearing his ACL in the 2007 postseason.

Still, the risk of complications or reinjury simply isn't worth the trouble: Washington Commanders quarterback Robert Griffin's career was quickly derailed when he attempted to return too quickly from a January ACL tear following an impressive rookie season. After earning Offensive Rookie of the Year honors in 2012, he stumbled to a 3-10 record in 2013. He never started more than seven games in a season after that.

Even with a healthy Murray, the Cardinals would have a hard time contending so soon after a 2022 season that saw them finish 4-13. With head coach Jonathan Gannon and general manager Monti Ossenfort both in their first year, the Cards should focus on a steady rebuild. They have to take the long view with Murray and give him all the time he needs to recover.