Arizona Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon chose to keep key starters, including Kyler Murray, on the field during the team’s 20-17 preseason victory over the Kansas City Chiefs. This decision, made early in the preseason, aimed to provide starters with vital playing time to prepare effectively for the upcoming regular season. The Cardinals emphasized gaining real-game experience to build momentum and ensure readiness.
Gannon highlighted Murray’s passion for the game, noting his eagerness to play. He said,
“(Kyler) is a ball junkie, so he loves to play football,”
and added,
“The team, not just Kyler, they understood why we were doing what we were doing tonight. They were excited about it … to play another team, to get lathered up and bang somebody else other than themselves.”
—Jonathan Gannon, Head Coach
Kyler Murray Reflects on Preseason Challenges
Murray reviewed his interception against the Chiefs, explaining that it happened after a maneuver he hasn’t practiced extensively—rolling out to his left at full speed. He admitted this was a new experience in live game conditions compared to training camp practices. Murray expressed relief that it occurred during preseason rather than a high-stakes regular season game, stating,
“I’ve never really rolled out full speed (in training camp) like someone is going to tackle me,”
and,
“It’s kind of weird to explain. But I am glad it happened. I would’ve hated for it to be New Orleans.”
—Kyler Murray, Quarterback
Other NFL Teams Address Injury Updates and Player Contracts
While the Cardinals advance into the preseason with focus, other NFL teams manage key player situations. Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay provided no new updates on quarterback Matthew Stafford’s back injury, sharing,
“We’re trying to get our hands around this as well, so I don’t really have much more information other than think we’re trying some different things that are hopefully going to be in alignment with getting him back out on the field.”
—Sean McVay, Rams Head Coach
Meanwhile, Rams running back Kyren Williams secured a three-year contract extension valued at $33 million, including $23 million in guarantees and a $5.2 million signing bonus. His contract features escalating base salaries and roster bonuses through 2027, structured to reward consistent performance and availability.
Seahawks Outline Physical Offensive Identity for Coming Season
Seattle Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker commented on the team’s plans to focus on a physical offensive style in 2025, aiming to emphasize both running and receiving out of the backfield. He shared,
“I feel like it’s going to be a physical offense, and we know what we want our identity to be,”
and,
“I like the aspect of running the ball, but also getting out of the backfield and catching the ball. It’s great… We’ve got all types of schemes that we can do, but I feel like I’m just an explosive back, and we can make plays.”
—Kenneth Walker, Seahawks Running Back
Walker, who has faced criticism regarding his vision on the field, now benefits from the support of fullback Robbie Outzs, a fifth-round pick who serves as his lead blocker. Walker emphasized trust in his blocker’s ability, saying,
“If I don’t see it, and if he can see it, I can just follow him, and he just takes me,”
and,
“Even if we don’t hit the right hole, if we hit it 100 percent, it still can make the play.”
—Kenneth Walker, Seahawks Running Back
Offensive Coordinator Highlights Keys to Running Back Success
Seahawks offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak highlighted intelligence and availability as critical attributes for elite running backs. He explained,
“No. 1 is intelligence,”
and,
“No. 2 is availability, guys that are available the whole game. The best backs I’ve been around are super smart. Guys that you give them difficult game plans, and they can go out and make adjustments. Our top two guys are doing really good things, but Charbonnet, his mental approach to the game is extremely impressive. He does not flinch. If he ever has a question, you know you didn’t coach it good enough, because he’s that on it.”
—Klint Kubiak, Offensive Coordinator
Implications for the Cardinals and NFL Teams Moving Forward
The Cardinals’ decision to prioritize starters like Kyler Murray in preseason demonstrates a commitment to readiness and resilience as they approach the regular season. Murray’s willingness to take risks and absorb valuable live-game experience could pay dividends once the official games begin. At the same time, injury concerns and contract developments across the NFL, including updates from the Rams and strategic shifts by the Seahawks, reflect the dynamic nature of team preparations this offseason. Collectively, these developments underline the determination among teams to build momentum and formulate identities that can sustain success throughout the demanding NFL schedule.