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One of the best and most comprehensive features we offer every year is our Footballguys Preseason Updates. Every week this month, Bob Henry, Jason Wood, Clayton Gray, and our team of Footballguys Staffers cover every player that matters from every NFL team. It's 32-plus pages of some of the most comprehensive coverage you'll find. It's probably worth the Footballguys Premium Subscription by itself.
Updates from Week 4
If you're in a hurry, check out Joe Bryant's Preseason Insights: What You Need To Know This Week.
Preseason Updates: Quarterbacks
Kyler Murray’s absence from preseason games is not a concern. Offensive coordinator Drew Petzing noted that the relationship between Murray and Coach Jonathan Gannon is enjoyable to watch as it develops. He added, “I think they’re very similar in their competitiveness, in terms of their love of football, and in the way they see the game.” Gannon stated that Murray is “leaps and bounds” ahead of where he was last year. Clayton Tune started the preseason finale and played the first half, completing 12-of-17 passes for 120 yards with one interception. Desmond Ridder took over for the second half, completing 10-of-16 passes for 111 yards. The competition for the backup role remains open, with Tune, now in his second year in the system, the favorite.
Preseason Updates: Running Backs
Trey Benson was admittedly timid in his first game but has since grown more comfortable, showing why Arizona prioritized him in the draft. Michael Carter has been mentoring Benson, who described Carter as “a big brother to me.” Coach Petzing noted that Benson controls his own fate. Emari Demercado has focused on improving his blocking and potentially securing the third-down role. He did not see any offensive action in the preseason finale but was in on punt coverage. Tony Jones started the finale, finishing with seven carries for 29 yards and two receptions for 14 yards. Hassan Hall led the backfield with 19 carries for 59 yards and one touchdown, adding four receptions for 28 yards. James Conner remains the lead back, serving in his usual bell-cow role, with Benson likely as the direct backup. Carter will compete for a change-of-pace role if he makes the team, while DeeJay Dallas is expected to contribute on special teams.
Preseason Updates: Wide Receivers
Marvin Harrison Jr., Michael Wilson, and Greg Dortch are the top options and did not play in the final preseason game. Zay Jones has been suspended for five games for violating the NFL’s personal conduct policy. Xavier Weaver continues to impress, with OC Petzing noting, “One of the things that stood out, and is a nice thing to see, especially from an undrafted rookie, is that he’s kind of unflappable.” It would not be surprising if Weaver makes the final roster after connecting with Tune on a 43-yard diving catch. Weaver’s special teams role may allow for an increased offensive role for Greg Dortch, Arizona’s returner in 2023. Zach Pascal, a veteran familiar with Gannon’s system, is likely secured as the No. 5 receiver. Jones’ suspension possibly opens the door for veteran Chris Moore.
Preseason Updates: Tight Ends
Trey McBride will be heavily involved in the offense, stating, “I feel more comfortable in this offense, being here with Drew [Petzing] for the second year.” Tip Reiman is expected to be involved as a blocker, with Coach Gannon saying, “He can move people. He can negate one-on-one at the point of attack.” Blake Whiteheart caught four receptions for 35 yards in the finale. Bernhard Seikovits added two receptions for 18 yards, and Sage Surratt had one reception for four yards. McBride, Elijah Higgins, and Reiman will lead the tight end room, with Whiteheart likely rounding out the group if the team decides to carry a fourth tight end.
Preseason Updates: Defense
Defensive lineman Darius Robinson suffered a calf injury, and an MRI scan revealed he will miss multiple weeks. Starting the season on injured reserve, making him eligible to return in Week 5, is not off the table. Arizona currently lacks pass-rush depth following B.J. Ojulari’s ACL tear. Defensive Coordinator Nick Rallis stated, “I know that we’ve made a lot of strides, and we are going to continue to get better at that spot.” Outside linebacker Xavier Thomas has consistently made plays, with Rallis saying, “He’s a natural pass rusher.” Outside linebacker Cameron Thomas has also been playing well, enjoying the freedom of playing “fast and free” and feeling more comfortable in his second year in the system. He recorded three sacks during the preseason. Cornerback Sean Murphy-Bunting has missed multiple practices this week but should be fine. Cornerbacks Max Melton, Starling Thomas V., and Garrett Williams are locks to make the final roster. Kei’Trel Clark, Darren Hall, and Elijah Jones are the top candidates for the fifth cornerback spot. Hall’s experience at safety and his ability to rotate between cornerback and safety offers Arizona flexibility in its roster construction. Arizona had five cornerbacks on their 53-man roster in 2023, so it wouldn’t be surprising if they carry six this year.
Preseason Updates: Returners
Greg Dortch and DeeJay Dallas have been competing to handle returns. Both players can handle punts, but Dallas is the better kickoff returner. Both are likely to make the final 53-man roster.
Updates from Week 3
If you're in a hurry, check out Joe Bryant's Preseason Insights: What You Need To Know This Week.
Preseason Updates: Quarterbacks
Kyler Murray was one of 28 players who didn’t play against the Colts this week. But the franchise quarterback looked sharp in joint practices, completing 13-of-15 passes. Clayton Tune started the game and completed 8 of 10 passes for 79 yards, adding a rushing touchdown. Desmond Ridder finished the game with 6 of 10 passing for 71 yards. Ridder forced a throw into double coverage when check-downs were available, repeating mistakes he has made throughout camp. Neither backup has looked great this summer, but the consensus is that Tune has the edge on the roster spot.
Preseason Updates: Running Backs
James Conner is entrenched as the starter, but the Cardinals have not yet committed to his backup. Rookie Trey Benson appears to have the edge over Emari Demercado. He started against the Colts and fared much better than in Week 1. He gained 41 yards in nine carries while missing four tackles. Demercado carried the ball ten times for just 24 yards while nursing a minor shoulder injury. Most beat writers see DeeJay Dallas making the roster, too, with Michael Carter missing the cut.
Preseason Updates: Wide Receivers
The top four receivers—Marvin Harrison Jr., Michael Wilson, Greg Dortch, and Zay Jones—were among the 28 players who didn’t play against the Colts. But the electric rookie acknowledged how special it was to have joint practices with the franchise that his father enjoyed a Hall of Fame career playing for: "It is kind of crazy. The first joint practice against the Colts, who would've thought that? I made it at this point with my own path. I just want to work hard and see where it takes me." Head Coach Gannon also took the opportunity to praise his young star: “For a rookie, he’s a pro’s pro. He tries to get better every day. He keeps his head down and handles his business.” Andre Baccellia led the team in targets (4), but he’s a long shot to make the 53-man roster. The fifth and sixth spots will likely be some combination of Xavier Weaver, Zach Pascal, and Chris Moore. Pascal is familiar with Gannon from their time with Indianapolis, which gives him an edge.
Preseason Updates: Tight Ends
Trey McBride and Elijah Higgins did not play in the game, and are locked in as the No. 1 and No. 2 options, respectively. Bernhard Seikovits led the tight ends in the game with two receptions, while Travis Vokolek and Tip Reiman had one reception each. Reiman has the strong edge for the third roster spot as a third-round rookie. If the team opts to keep a fourth tight end, Blake Whiteheart’s special teams value makes him the logical choice.
Preseason Updates: Defense
The defense played better this week than in Week 1. The unit recorded four sacks from outside linebacker Cameron Thomas (2), defensive lineman L.J. Collier (1), and outside linebacker Xavier Thomas (1). Thomas has recorded a sack in each game. Safety Dadrion Taylor-Demerson had an interception, and cornerback Kei’Trel Clark forced a fumble. Cornerbacks Garrett Williams and Max Melton did not play, but they are essential pieces in the secondary. Defensive lineman Darius Robinson did not play, but Gannon said, “I just like where he’s at.” When asked if Robinson could start, Gannon responded, “One thousand percent.” Linebacker Owen Pappoe has continued to impress, recording a pick-six in the joint practice and adding two tackles in the game.
Preseason Updates: Offensive Lines
Left tackle Paris Johnson Jr. is the group's premium talent; even after moving from the right side, he still shows Pro Bowl potential. Center Hjalte Froholdt and right guard Will Hernandez are assets in the run game but are below-average pass protectors. Free agency brought two average starters in left guard Evan Brown (Detroit) and right tackle Jonah Williams (Cincinnati). Rookie Christian Jones (Round 5, Texas) looked excellent in preseason Week 1, and he could push Williams at right tackle sooner rather than later. Fans will wonder about their low rank (28th overall), but they have the upside to improve as the year progresses.
Updates from Week 2
If you're in a hurry, check out Joe Bryant's Preseason Insights: What You Need To Know This Week.
Preseason Updates: Quarterbacks
Kyler Murray has been impressive in camp, with Coordinator Drew Petzing praising his "command of the offense." Head Coach Jonathan Gannon added, "His best ball is right now." Murray will not participate in the preseason. The backup quarterback competition remains open. Desmond Ridder started against the Saints, completing 4-of-9 passes for 43 yards. Clayton Tune finished the game, completing 15-of-24 passes for 163 yards and one touchdown. Tune currently appears to have the edge.
Preseason Updates: Running Backs
James Conner is firmly established as the lead back. The competition for the backup job is ongoing, with the unofficial depth chart listing rookie Trey Benson at No. 2. Emari Demercado has been nursing a minor injury but has continued to see first-team reps, indicating it’s not a serious issue. Conner and Demercado did not play against New Orleans. Michael Carter had seven carries for 41 yards and one touchdown, while Benson had eight carries for 21 yards, with a 24-yard slip-screen called back due to a penalty. Deejay Dallas and Tony Jones saw limited action, with Jones adding three receptions and a receiving touchdown.
Preseason Updates: Wide Receivers
Arizona beat writer Donnie Druin noted that the wide receivers have consistently made plays in camp. Greg Dortch has been a standout, with Coach Gannon stating, "He’s elevated his game...he’s going to have a big year, guys." Michael Wilson mentioned that his relationship with Kyler Murray continues to grow, along with the “confidence in the locker room.” Marvin Harrison Jr. played only one series in the preseason game, which included two running plays and a sack. Dan Chisena led the team with five receptions for 63 yards, while Andre Baccellia and Xavier Weaver each had two receptions. Weaver also had one carry.
Preseason Updates: Tight Ends
Trey McBride is locked in as the starting tight end. Elijah Higgins is "loved" by the Arizona staff, according to Donnie Druin, and is listed as No. 2 on the unofficial depth chart. Tip Reiman has been utilized primarily as a blocker and is expected to fill the Geoff Swaim role in the offense. Reiman was the only starting or rotational tight end to play against the Saints, where he had a notable block on Chase Young. Blake Whiteheart had two receptions for 22 yards, while Travis Vokolek and Bernhard Seikovits each had one reception.
Preseason Updates: Defense
Edge rush is a concern following B.J. Ojulari’s ACL tear, with Zaven Collins stepping in as the lead rusher. Coordinator Nick Rallis described the outside linebacker spots as "fluid," mentioning that Xavier Thomas has recently "let it rip," as evidenced by his recording of the defense’s only sack in the preseason game. Lineman Darius Robinson played two series, making the first tackle on New Orleans’ opening drive. Coach Gannon praised Robinson’s toughness, noting, "I saw him get pounded on a double [team], and they didn’t move him." The interior defensive line will rotate between Roy Lopez, Khyiris Tonga, Justin Jones, and Bilal Nichols. Druin observed a renewed energy within this group. Cornerbacks Max Melton and Starling Thomas V are competing for a boundary role alongside Sean Murphy-Bunting. Thomas was the only potential starting cornerback to play in the game, recording a pass deflection. Rallis praised Garrett Williams, stating, "He’s done a really good job of making it look like he’s been playing that position." Safety Dadrion Taylor-Demerson had three tackles against the Saints.
Preseason Updates: Returners
Greg Dortch and DeeJay Dallas are competing to handle returns. Both can field punts, but Dallas has the edge as the better kickoff returner.
Updates from Week 1
If you're in a hurry, check out Joe Bryant's What You Need To Know From Every Team This Week.
Preseason Updates: Quarterbacks
Kyler Murray will be under center and fully healthy to start the season. Head Coach Jonathan Gannon said Murray has been “lights out”. According to Yahoo’s Charles Robinson, the plan is to “level up” Murray. Arizona traded for Desmond Ridder in the offseason, and he will compete with second-year player Clayton Tune for backup duties. Gannon said, “They know it’s going to be a healthy competition.” Tune mentioned that he is getting “more and more comfortable” and that the system is “becoming kind of second nature.”
Preseason Updates: Running Backs
James Conner is expected to retain the lead role. Gannon commented, “He looks very explosive out there,” and added, “He’s gonna have a good year.” Rookie Trey Benson will be integrated into the offense. Gannon stated, “The focus is making sure you are improving your game in all aspects.” Emari Demercado has seen first-team reps, with Gannon noting, “It feels like he has some juice to him” as he enters his second year in the system. Michael Carter seems to be competing for a roster spot. Gannon remarked, “He is the perfect fit for what we’re doing.” Arizona had three running backs on the active roster for Week 1 in 2023.
Preseason Updates: Wide Receivers
Marvin Harrison is locked in as the No. 1 target. Gannon stated, “[Harrison Jr.] needs to get out and play” during the preseason. He has been heavily involved in the offense throughout the first week of camp. The battle for the second wide receiver spot continues. Michael Wilson is being targeted on deep balls. He told Kyler Murray, “I am here for you,” emphasizing the importance of building their relationship and chemistry. Gannon praised Greg Dortch, saying, “The look in his eye gives me confidence.” Arizona Cardinals beat writer Darren Urban continues to praise Dortch, who will aim to secure the slot role. Zay Jones, who signed a one-year contract, will provide a veteran presence, bringing a specific “mentality” that aligns with Gannon’s vision for the offense. Jones has been impressive so far. Undrafted rookie Xavier Weaver has also stood out and is a name to watch.
Preseason Updates: Tight Ends
Arizona utilized 13 personnel in 7-on-7 drills. They led the NFL in 13 personnel usage following Kyler Murray’s return in Week 10 of 2023, indicating their intentions with their three tight ends. Trey McBride aims to build on his breakout 2023 campaign. Gannon stated, “Sky’s the limit” for McBride in 2024. Yahoo’s Charles Robinson indicated McBride’s red zone opportunities would increase. Elijah Higgins has been working with the first team, having converted from wide receiver to tight end as a rookie. Gannon “loves his game,” noting he is strong, explosive, smart, and will be a weapon in both the run and pass game. Rookie Tip Reiman has shown promise, with the staff feeling “really good” about his potential. Tight End coach Ben Steele noted that Reiman is not just a blocking tight end and has “really great hands,” expecting him to contribute to the passing game “at some point.”
Preseason Updates: Defense
Defensive Coordinator Nick Rallis has the defense ready to “play fast and problem solve,” emphasizing “rules, not memorization.” Safety Budda Baker is the leader of the defense, with Gannon stating, “He has a unique gift” for being a vocal leader. B.J. Ojulari suffered a torn ACL and will be out for the season. Rookie DL Darious Robinson will be utilized along the defensive line. The lack of depth in the pass rush is a concern. Zaven Collins, who transitioned to OLB in 2023 and recorded 3.5 sacks, will need to step up. He signed a two-year extension earlier this month. Second-year player Dante Stills and rookie Robinson will look to contribute to the pass rush. Veterans Dennis Gardeck and Victor Dimukeje will serve as rotational rushers. Rallis believes Kyzir White and Mack Wilson Sr. are “violent guys” and “highly intelligent,” leading the linebacker group. Krys Barnes and Owen Pappoe will play rotational roles, with both appearing in 16 games last season. Tyreek Maddox-Williams may return to the practice squad, having been signed to the active roster for the last three games in 2023.
Free agent acquisition Sean Murphy-Bunting will serve as the No. 1 cornerback. Cornerbacks Garrett Williams and Starling Thomas V are vying for larger roles, with Williams transitioning from slot duties to the outside. Thomas V. has appeared more confident and comfortable, according to Gannon. Rookie CB Max Melton received praise from WR Harrison Jr., who said, “He has great technique, especially in press coverage,” and noted that Melton was one of the few cornerbacks who pressed him in college. Gannon stated, “He’s one of the guys who will be in the competition” for a starting role. Kei’Trel Clark and Darren Hall may be competing for a roster spot. At the safety position, superstar Budda Baker and reliable Jalen Thompson will continue their partnership, which has been strong since 2021. Arizona had six cornerbacks and three safeties on their Week 1 roster in 2023.
