The first episode of 2022 Arizona Cardinals Flight Plan dropped on Tuesday and gave fans a deep dive into some of the drama surrounding the team this offseason.
Valley fans are well aware of the details surrounding the front office and quarterback Kyler Murray, who wants a contract extension.
Owner Michael Bidwill opened the episode by answering the question on everyone’s mind.
“First of all we all stayed in communication with Kyler and him with us. It never stopped us, it was really just noise from outside. Bidwill said in Episode 1.
“Unfortunately it has gotten stronger and stronger at different times for different reasons, but that has never stopped us from talking to each other and having really good constructive conversations about how we are going to improve as an organization. and him to continue to grow as a player. I’m excited for our future.
Murray’s agent sent in a contract proposal in March which has since been canceled as other league quarterbacks reach deals.
Arizona began voluntary practices Tuesday, but Murray was not present.
Although the Cardinals haven’t had a splashy offseason similar to 2021, Bidwill has faith in general manager Steve Keim.
“If you look at the last five seasons, about two-thirds of the free agents who went to a different team and got paid over $10 million, played less than 75% playing time,” Bidwill said.
“Steve (Keim) has had a lot of success signing players that people have really forgotten about. James Conner was signed in (April) last year. Being aggressive is also about being patient and taking the risk that great players are there.
With the departure of running back Chase Edmonds, Conner will take over as the leading running back for Arizona this year.
The Cardinals’ key moves this offseason include re-signing tight end Zach Ertz to a three-year contract, re-signing quarterback Colt McCoy, tight end Maxx Williams as well as signing the player from offensive line Will Hernandez.